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How to Flood-Proof Your Home Before the Next Big Storm

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Check Your Gutters and Downspouts

Before a storm, clear leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters send water over the edge, pooling near your foundation. That water can seep into a basement or crawl space. Extend downspouts at least 6 feet from the house so water drains away from the walls.

Inspect the ground around your home for low spots where water collects. If you find any, add soil to slope the ground away from the foundation. This simple step can keep a lot of water out. If you have a sump pump, test it now by pouring water into the pit to make sure it turns on and drains properly.

Seal Cracks and Openings

Walk around your foundation and look for cracks or gaps. Small cracks can widen over time, letting water through. Use a masonry sealant to fill them. Check where utility lines enter the house, like pipes or cables. Seal those openings with caulk or foam to keep water out.

Also check windows and doors in basements or low-lying rooms. Make sure the seals are in good shape. If you have a window well, cover it with a clear plastic shield to keep rain and runoff away. These fixes are inexpensive and you can do them yourself in an afternoon.

  • Clear gutters and downspouts before each storm
  • Extend downspouts at least 6 feet from the house
  • Seal foundation cracks with masonry sealant
  • Caulk around pipes and utility entries
  • Test your sump pump once a month
  • Grade soil away from the foundation

Install a Backwater Valve

If your home has a basement, a backwater valve can stop sewage from backing up into your drains during heavy rain. This valve sits on your main drain line and closes when water flows backward. It is a job for a plumber, so ask a local plumber to inspect your setup and install one if you do not have it.

A backwater valve is not a common feature in every home, so you may need to add one. The cost depends on your plumbing layout and the valve type. It can be a big help if your street drains overflow. Talk to a plumber about whether this makes sense for your home.

Move Valuables Up and off the Floor

In basements or ground-floor rooms, keep furniture, electronics, and important papers off the floor. Use shelves or raise items on blocks. If water gets in, you will have less to lose. Store documents in waterproof containers and keep them high.

Move area rugs and curtains to higher ground if a storm is coming. If you have a furnace or water heater in the basement, consider raising them on a platform. This can prevent costly damage. Also, keep hazardous materials like paint or cleaners off the floor so they do not spill into floodwater.

Know Your Shutoff Valve and Emergency Kit

Find your main water shutoff valve and make sure everyone in the house knows where it is. If a pipe bursts during a storm, you can stop the water fast. Write down the location and keep it visible. If you live in Kirkland, keep that note near your circuit breaker.

Put together a simple emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and a battery-powered radio. Keep it in a dry, easy-to-reach spot. If you have a sump pump, have a backup battery or generator so it works during a power outage. These steps help you stay safe and reduce damage.

  • Locate and label your main water shutoff valve
  • Keep a flashlight and batteries in a dry spot
  • Have a backup power source for your sump pump
  • Store important documents in a waterproof safe
  • Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your plumber
  • Review your insurance policy to understand what is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Water damage does not wait

Phones are answered 24/7 for Kirkland and nearby communities.

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Frequently asked questions

What should I do if water starts coming in during a storm?

Turn off the main water supply if the water is from a pipe. Move items to higher ground and use towels or a wet vacuum to remove standing water. If the water is deep or contains sewage, leave the area and call a local water damage pro.

Can I flood-proof my home on my own?

Yes, many steps are doable yourself, like cleaning gutters and sealing cracks. For bigger jobs like a backwater valve or raising a furnace, you may need a plumber or an electrician. If a flood happens, professional cleanup is often needed for safety.

How often should I check my flood-proofing measures?

Check gutters and downspouts before each rainy season and after big storms. Test your sump pump every month. Inspect foundation seals once a year. If you notice new cracks or pooling, fix them right away. Regular checks cost little time and can prevent major damage.

Call Now (425) 406-3256