When It Rains...It Pours

By Etta Smith, Generation Contracting & Emergency Services

While on average San Diego receives less than 12 inches of rain annually, most of that rainfall is usually forecasted for January through April. February is historically the wettest month of the year for southern California.

Property-damage issues are likely to accompany heavy rainfall particularly when the region may receive three to four inches of rain from a single storm. With this information in mind, now is the time to be sure your properties, residents, and staff are prepared to handle the challenges that accompany such a severe weather event.

The best way to protect your property from rain damage is through consistent, preventative property maintenance. At least once a quarter you should walk your property and conduct a visual inspection to spot any problem areas that could lead to water intrusion. Pay particular attention to seals around windows and doors to ensure watertight integrity has not been compromised.

Be sure to note any visual cracks in exterior building materials (i.e., stucco, roofing, etc.) that could lead to water damage. If you do have an area of concern,

a contractor can perform a leak test to simulate what could happen when the rains come. This controlled test can save hundreds or even thousands in the long run, especially since some companies will not apply a tarp over a leak in the rain due to the safety risks to their personnel.

One challenge in our area with such few rainstorms is ensuring your roof and surrounding grounds are draining properly throughout the storm. Be sure to clear any drains of debris that may have been left behind from the previous season. Ensure that sump pumps are functioning properly and drain lines are clear of sediment.

To add an extra layer of protection, it is a great idea to conduct an inspection during an actual rain event. When you are on-site during a storm you can actually see how your roof, gutters, and grounds are draining to help anticipate additional maintenance that may be needed. Furthermore, if you can check on your property after an inch or two of rain, you can proactively address a small issue before it becomes a big problem (i.e., clear blocked drains, ensure sump pump float switches trigger properly, etc.).

One more bonus of walking your property in the rain is to identify walkways that may become slippery or hazardous. Paint finishes and fungal growth on wood surfaces can create an unexpected slip hazard in the rain.

The final step to protecting your investment as we head into the rainy season is ensuring your residents and staff know how to respond if an issue occurs. Be sure residents know who to call if they see signs of water damage. Remind residents to be vigilant not only during but also after the storm. Sometimes it can take a day or two for water to show interior signs of damage (ceiling/drywall staining, water bubbling/peeling, etc.), particularly if a roof leak is the source.

Now is the time to contact your emergency services contractor. At least once a year you should verify all contact information with your trusted suppliers and update insurance certificates on file as needed. Confirm their after-hours procedures to ensure they are available to help when you need them most!