Arizona’s monsoon season begins in June and continues through September. With it comes increased humidity, which can lead to thunderstorms, heavy rain, lightning, hail, strong winds, flash flooding, dust storms, and extreme heat. That’s why it’s essential to get your home prepared before the first storm hits. A few proactive steps can help you avoid costly damage and enjoy peace of mind throughout the season.
Schedule a Roofing Company to Inspect Your Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against Arizona’s monsoon rains. Before the season starts, schedule a local roofing company in Arizona to inspect it for any signs of wear or vulnerability. As our trusted vendors, we recommend State 48 Roofing and Panda Roofing & Construction. They offer complimentary monsoon roof inspections, providing homeowners with a comprehensive review of their roofing system before the severe weather begins. If it has been over two years since your last inspection, we highly recommend scheduling one—regardless of the time of year.
Check Your Grading and Drainage
Water should always flow away from your home’s foundation. During the next light rain, walk around your property to observe where water collects. If you notice persistent pooling, it may be time to install French drains, dry wells, or gutters. While gutters are less common in Arizona, they are effective in diverting water away from your home. Be sure to inspect for sagging, disconnection, or debris buildup. Downspouts should extend 3–5 feet away from your foundation, and you may need to add soil to create a proper slope directing water away from your home.
Seal Windows and Doors
Wind-driven rain can easily enter your home through poorly sealed doors and windows. Inspect all caulking and weatherstripping, and replace anything that’s cracked, loose, or missing. Installing door sweeps can also help prevent water intrusion during intense storms.
Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items
Monsoon winds are strong enough to turn weak branches and unsecured objects into flying hazards. Trim overhanging limbs to reduce the risk of damage to your roof, siding, or windows. Secure or store away patio furniture, grills, pool equipment, umbrellas, and any loose outdoor items to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
Test Sump Pumps and Backup Systems
While not common in Arizona, sump pumps are sometimes found in homes with basements or crawl spaces. If you have one, test it before monsoon season by pouring water into the pit to make sure it activates. For added protection, consider installing a battery backup system with an alarm to alert you during power outages.
Inspect for Foundation Cracks
Even small foundation cracks can allow water to seep into your home. Inspect the foundation both inside and outside for visible cracks or moisture. Minor issues can typically be sealed with waterproof sealant from a hardware store, but for larger concerns, it’s best to contact a professional contractor or structural expert.
Have an Emergency Plan and Kit Ready
Even with thorough preparation, Arizona’s monsoon weather can be unpredictable. Create an emergency kit and restock it each season. Your kit should include flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, and necessary medications. Also, make sure all household members know where your home’s circuit breakers and water shutoff valves are. Store important documents in waterproof containers or bags for added protection during severe storms.
Conclusion
In my over two decades of inspecting homes throughout Arizona, the ones that perform best during monsoon season are the ones where owners took proactive steps. A little prevention today can go a long way in protecting your home, saving you time, money, and stress. If you’re not sure whether your home is monsoon-ready, consider booking a professional home inspection in Gilbert, AZ or the surrounding area.
Sincerely,
John Tyler – General Manager, Checklist Inspections
CHECKLIST INSPECTIONS | Book Online 24/7 at www.checklistaz.com
Office / Scheduling: 480.361.8120
