Preparing Your Plumbing for Storm Season

Sydney's storm season brings intense downpours and, some years, east coast lows that can dump a lot of water in a short time. A few checks before the wet weather arrives make it far less likely that water ends up inside your home or pooling in your yard.

Clear gutters and downpipes

Blocked gutters are the most common cause of storm water damage. Leaves and debris stop water reaching the downpipes, so it overflows down walls and into eaves. Clean gutters and check downpipes are clear before the season starts, and again after heavy falls of leaves.

Check stormwater drains and grates

Ground-level stormwater drains and grates carry water away from the house and yard. Clear leaves and sediment from grates and check that water actually flows away when it drains, a slow-draining stormwater pit is often the first sign of a blockage further down the line.

Fix leaks before the rain arrives

Heavy rain finds every gap. Check for cracked roof tiles, damaged flashing and gaps around skylights and vents before the season, since these are the places water gets in during a storm. A small leak repaired in fine weather is far cheaper than water damage repaired after a storm.

Know your shut-off valve

If a pipe does burst during a storm, being able to turn off the water quickly limits the damage. Locate your main shut-off valve now, test that it turns, and make sure everyone in the household knows where it is.

Check outdoor plumbing and tanks

Outdoor taps, hoses and rainwater tank overflows all come under pressure in heavy rain. Check taps for drips and corrosion, and make sure rainwater tank overflows are clear so excess water can escape rather than backing up.