Vancouver Winter Rainstorms: Water Damage Prevention Checklist (2025)

Pre-Storm Prevention Checklist

Complete these tasks before the rainy season ramps up in Vancouver, West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Surrey, Richmond, and New Westminster.

Roof & Exterior

• Roof shingles & flashing: Replace cracked, curling, or missing shingles. Reseal around chimneys, skylights, and vents.
• Gutters & downspouts: Clean debris; confirm downspouts extend 6–10 feet away from the foundation with splash blocks or extensions.
• Soffit & fascia: Repair gaps or rot that let wind-driven rain into the attic.
• Windows & doors: Check caulking and weatherstripping; replace failed seals and re-caulk perimeter joints.
• Exterior grade: Ensure soil slopes away from the house (about 1–2 inches per foot for the first 6–10 feet).
• Driveway & patio drainage: Clear channel drains and trench grates of leaves and sediment.

Foundation & Drainage

• Drain tile/weeping tile: If your home is older, consider a camera inspection. Clear blockages before the wettest months.
• Window wells: Install covers and ensure each well has a functioning drain.
• Cracks: Seal minor foundation and slab cracks before storms increase hydrostatic pressure.
• Sump system: Test the pump, float, and check valve; clean the pit. Add a battery or water-powered backup where outages are common.

Interior & Mechanical

• Attic ventilation: Verify clear soffit and ridge vents to reduce condensation and ice-dam risk in cold snaps.
• Dehumidification: Keep indoor humidity under 50% to discourage mold.
• Plumbing: Insulate exposed pipes, especially along exterior walls and unheated garages or crawlspaces.
• Basement & crawlspace: Install a vapor barrier over soil, lift storage off the floor, and keep critical items in sealed bins.
• Emergency kit: Keep towels, plastic sheeting, a wet/dry vac, and a flashlight handy.

What To Do During Heavy Rain

1. Stay safe first: Avoid standing water near electrical outlets or appliances. Don’t step into a flooded area until power is off.
2. Spot-check trouble zones: Attic, basement corners, window wells, and exterior doors.
3. Manage flow: Reattach downspout extensions if they’ve blown off; clear clogged curb drains by your property.
4. Reduce indoor moisture: Run bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans; use dehumidifiers in basements.
5. Contain small leaks: Place buckets under drips and cover valuables with plastic sheeting.
6. Document issues: Record photos and short videos; note date/time and rainfall conditions.
7. Call for help if water is entering: Early extraction reduces damage and mold risk +1 604-800-3900.

Post-Storm Inspection Steps

• Attic & ceilings: Look for damp insulation, dark stains, or swollen drywall around penetrations.
• Walls & baseboards: Check for bubbling paint, soft drywall, or musty odours.
• Floors: Examine laminate or hardwood for cupping and vinyl edges for lifting.
• Foundation: Inspect interior perimeter for wet spots; scan for new hairline cracks.
• HVAC filters: Replace filters if they got damp; keep air moving to dry residual moisture.
• Moisture verification: If you have a moisture meter, confirm materials are back to safe levels before closing up walls.

Common Vancouver Problem Areas (and Fixes)

1) Roof Leaks & Ice Dams (yes, we get them)

Short cold snaps can create ice dams at eaves, forcing meltwater under shingles. Improve attic ventilation and insulation, and keep roof edges clear.

2) Gutter Overflows in West Vancouver & North Shore Slopes

Steep lots and tall trees clog gutters quickly. Larger 5–6" gutters with leaf guards and extra downspouts help move water safely away.

3) Basement Seepage in Older East Van & New West Homes

Legacy drain tile can clog with silt and roots. Interior perimeter drains with a sump, or selective exterior replacement, are proven fixes.

4) Window Well Flooding

Install covers, ensure gravel isn’t blocking the drains, and tie well drains into an effective outflow (sump or gravity where permitted).

5) Crawlspace Humidity in Richmond & Delta

Use ground vapor barriers, perimeter drains, and dehumidification to prevent mold growth and structural rot.

Typical Cost Ranges (Guide)

Every home is different, but these ballpark ranges help with planning. You’ll receive a precise line-item quote after a site visit.

Want exact pricing? We’ll assess your property and provide a transparent, line-item estimate—free.

When to Call a Professional

• Water is actively entering through walls, floors, or window wells.
• Ceilings are sagging or drywall feels soft under light pressure.
• Musty odours or visible spots suggest mold growth.
• Electrical risk: standing water near outlets or appliances.
• Recurring problems: seasonal seepage that returns each winter.

VR Plus Restoration offers 24/7 emergency response, moisture mapping, thermal imaging, water extraction, structural drying, mold remediation, and full rebuilds. We also assist with documentation if your water damage began with a covered sudden event. Call us for free help at +1 604-800-3900.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a roof leak and condensation?

Roof leaks show up after rain and often leave localized stains near penetrations. Condensation is tied to humidity and ventilation; it appears on cold surfaces (windows, exterior walls) and may persist regardless of rain.

Interior vs. exterior waterproofing—how do I choose?

Interior systems manage water after it reaches the wall and are less disruptive; exterior systems stop water at the source and are best for heavy exterior intrusion. Access, budget, and severity drive the choice.

Can I stay in my home during drying?

Often, yes. Air movers and dehumidifiers are noisy but safe. If demolition or heavy mold remediation is required, partial or temporary relocation might be recommended.

Will insurance cover storm-related water damage?

Policies vary. Sudden, accidental events are more likely to be covered than maintenance issues. We’ll document the loss and help you communicate with your insurer.

How do I prevent mold after a leak?

Extract water quickly, run dehumidifiers, keep humidity under 50%, and verify materials are dry before closing walls. If odours persist, schedule a professional assessment.