How to Prepare Your Home for Heavy Rain: 5 Essential Surface Water Management Tips

As heavy rainstorms become more frequent, preparing your home for heavy rain is critical to avoid water damage. Surface water that’s not properly managed can lead to foundation issues, basement flooding, and expensive repairs.

Here are five important tips from Trico’s warranty team to help you protect your home from rainfall and manage surface water effectively.

1. Make Sure Downspout Extensions Are in Place

Check that your downspout extensions are down and pointed away from your foundation. This helps guide water away from your home. If the water still pools near your foundation, consider adding a longer extension to divert it farther into the yard.

Proper downspout direction is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce water around your foundation during a storm.

2. Check & Test Your Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump, test it to ensure it’s operating correctly before the rain starts. Also, clear away any debris around storm drains near your property. A functioning sump pump and clear drainage paths can prevent water from backing up into your basement.

Routine checks can make a big difference when a storm hits unexpectedly.

3. Clean Gutters & Eavestroughs

Gutters and eavestroughs should be kept clear of leaves, twigs, and other debris. When clogged, they can overflow and direct water toward your foundation instead of away from it.

Clean your gutters at least once a year, and more often if your home is surrounded by trees. This keeps water flowing properly during heavy rainfall.

4. Monitor Your Window Wells During Rain

Window wells can collect water quickly during a storm. If the drainage around your window wells is poor, you might see water pooling near your basement windows.

Keep an eye on these areas during a storm and ensure that they’re draining properly. Installing a window well cover or adding drainage gravel can help.

5. Ensure Positive Drainage Around Your Home

Walk around your home and look at how the ground slopes. Water should flow away from your foundation. If it appears to run toward your house, you may need to regrade the soil or install landscaping features that redirect water.

This is especially important near window wells and basement walls to prevent long-term damage.

Final Thoughts on Rain Preparation and Drainage

Taking these steps can go a long way in protecting your home from the impact of heavy rain. Preparing early helps you avoid water-related problems and gives you peace of mind when storm clouds appear.

For more helpful information on managing your homes surface water, check out this guide from the Alberta New Home Warranty Program. For more home maintenance advice and seasonal tips, be sure to follow our blog.