Rainy Season Home Checklist in San Diego
San Diego averages only 10–12 inches of rain per year — but because homes and drainage systems sit dry for months, the first real rain reveals every gap: leaky roofs, clogged gutters, cracked window seals, and poor yard drainage. This checklist helps you catch problems before they become water damage.
Roof and gutters
- Clear gutters and downspouts before November
- Check roof for cracked, lifted, or missing shingles
- Look at flashing around chimney, skylights, and vents
- Trim overhanging tree branches before storms
- Check attic for signs of prior water intrusion
- Test downspout extensions — water should drain away from foundation
Windows, doors and drainage
- Check window weatherstripping and caulk
- Test sliding door seals — common leak point in San Diego homes
- Clear any debris from yard drains and area drains
- Check that slope drains away from house (not toward it)
- Inspect window wells if you have basement or below-grade rooms
- Confirm sump pump (if any) is working
Interior and quick fixes
- Check under sinks for existing slow drips before rain complicates them
- Note any wall stains from last rainy season — those spots will leak again
- Test smoke and CO detectors — replace batteries now
- Have a water shutoff plan if pipes burst
- Store important documents above floor level if you've had flooding
One text. Real guidance.
Describe what's going on. We'll give a calm, honest response — no pressure.
Updated March 2026