Home Maintenance: Preventing Flooding in the Spring

Spring has sprung (hopefully)! The arrival of blue skies, butterflies, and nice weather also means that the threat of flooding is coming. With snow melting (and quickly), plus the frequent rain, and don’t forget the still-frozen ground, you have the perfect combination for flooding. Even if you live in an area with a low flood risk, you may still be susceptible!

It’s not all doom and gloom, there are some simple steps you can take to significantly lower your chance of property damage.

Move snow away from your foundation and window wells.
Remove debris from eavestroughs, gutters, and storm drains.
Direct downspouts, and if you have extensions those too, away from your home.
Re-open outside water valves only when overnight temperatures are consistently above freezing.
Store valuables in waterproof containers and above basement level.
Clear obstructions away from basement floor drains.
Ensure that your sump pump, backup sump pump and/or backflow valves are working if your home is equipped with them.

Flood prevention steps do not apply to only spring, here are some things you can do for the long term prevention of flooding in your home.

Re-grade (away from the building) paved or landscaped areas that currently slope toward your home.
Install a sump pump that has an automatic secondary backup.
Install window wells around basement windows.
Seal any cracks in your foundation walls and basement floors.

Here at Jump Realty, all of our agents can help you get your home flood proof if it is time to sell or flood proof if you are looking to buy a new home and it needs upgrades. They’ll give you honest advice on what course of action is best for you in their professional opinion and will always put taking care of your best interests first! With offices in Windsor, Tecumseh, Kingsville, and Chatham, no matter where you are a Jump agent is ready to help. Please contact us for any housing needs and let us give you a better real estate experience!