Summer is officially here, which means longer days and warmer weather - but it also brings sudden downpours that can quickly test your property’s drainage.
A blocked drain or poorly directed runoff can turn a sunny afternoon into a soggy headache fast.
Before the Christmas holidays arrive (complete with barbecues, plenty of visitors, and, unfortunately, the occasional heavy rain), now is an ideal time to make sure your home is ready for whatever the season brings.
Why stormwater management matters
It’s easy to forget about stormwater once the weather warms up - but summer rain can be heavy, fast, and overwhelming for systems that haven’t been maintained.
When your stormwater system can’t cope, you might end up with:
A flooded backyard or driveway: Creating a muddy, unusable mess.
Water pooling against your home’s foundations: Causing long-term structural damage.
Overwhelmed gutters and downpipes: Sending water cascading down walls, leading to rot and leaks.
Soil erosion: Constant water flow can wash away topsoil, leaving gardens bare and uneven.
Landscape damage: Saturated lawns, flower beds, and paved areas can become waterlogged, making them unusable and damaging plants.
A little prevention now saves a lot of cost, stress, and repair work later.
Do a quick check
You don’t need to be a drainage expert to do a quick health check. Grab a pair of gloves and take a walk around your property, paying attention to these key areas:
Gutters and downpipes: Clear out any leaves, moss, and debris that have built up over winter. A handful of leaves is all it takes to create a blockage. Make sure water can flow freely from the roof to the downpipe.
Surface drains and grates: Check any drains in your driveway, patio, or lawn, and sweep away leaves, silt, and grass clippings that might be covering them. Water needs a clear path to enter the drainage system.
The lay of the land: Take a look at your lawn and garden beds. Does the ground slope away from your house? Or are there low spots where water naturally pools near the foundations? If the latter, consider creating small drainage channels or regrading the area to guide water safely away.
Visible signs of trouble: Look for areas of unusually green grass (which can indicate a leak underground) or patches of ground that are always damp and boggy, even on a dry day.
This simple walk-around can highlight issues before the busy holiday period.
When to call in the experts
Some issues are deeper than they appear. Bring in a professional if you notice:
Persistent puddles: If water is still pooling on your lawn or driveway a day or two after it rains, it’s a clear sign it has nowhere to go.
Gurgling drains: Strange noises from your drains when it rains often point to a partial blockage deep within the pipes that a simple clean won't fix.
Dampness under the house: Any sign of moisture, water marks, or a musty smell in your subfloor is a major red flag that needs immediate attention.
You're planning a change: If you're looking to install a new driveway, patio, or retaining wall, it’s crucial to get the drainage plan right before you start. Solving it afterwards is always more difficult and expensive.
Summer should be for relaxing - not dealing with water damage
With a little maintenance now and the right advice where needed, you can head into summer confident your home is protected against sudden rain.
Want expert help assessing your property’s drainage or planning improvements?
Get in touch with our team - we’ll help you choose the right stormwater solutions for your home.
