New Zealand weather can change quickly, and heavy rainfall events are becoming more common in many regions. When storms hit, homes that aren’t properly prepared can quickly suffer flooding and water damage.
The good news is that many flood issues can be prevented with regular maintenance and some simple preparation. Whether you're planning ahead for storm season or responding to a severe weather forecast, taking the right steps can help protect your home. And let’s face it, storm season seems to be all year round now in NZ, so it’s best to always be prepared!
This guide outlines practical steps you can take year-round to reduce your flood risk, as well as what to do immediately when heavy rain is forecast.
Want a quick way to get prepared? Download our free Flood Preparation Checklist - a simple step-by-step guide to help you protect your home before heavy rain hits.
A good first step in preparing your home is understanding the flood risk in your area.
Your local or regional council will usually have information about the flood risk for your property, and this should also be included in the property's LIM (Land Information Memorandum) report. If you live in Auckland, you can use the online flood mapping tool from Auckland Council to check whether your property sits within a flood-prone area.
Flood mapping tools can help identify risks such as:
It’s also helpful to observe surface water around your property. During moderate rainfall, take note of where water pools or flows. These areas may indicate where improved drainage could help reduce flood risk.
Understanding your property’s risk level can help you make more informed decisions about flood preparedness and insurance coverage.
One of the best ways to stop water damage early is to ensure your home’s existing drainage and protection systems are working properly. When a storm hits, these systems need to operate at full capacity.
1. Clear Gutters and Downpipes
Blocked gutters are one of the most common causes of water entering homes during storms. Debris such as leaves, sticks and other organic material can cause gutters to overflow. When this happens, water may back up under the eaves and enter your roof or wall cavities.
To reduce the risk of flooding:
Ideally, gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year, and more frequently if your property is surrounded by trees.
2. Check Pipe Fittings and External Plumbing
Inspect exposed pipe fittings and AC condensation lines around the exterior of your home. Small cracks or loose connections can worsen during heavy rain or increased water pressure, potentially causing localised flooding.
Addressing small leaks early can prevent much larger water damage issues later.
3. Maintain Drains and Outdoor Grates
Ensure that any drainage grates or sumps in areas such as driveways, patios or outdoor paths are clear of silt, leaves and organic debris. If these drains become blocked during heavy rain, water can quickly overflow into nearby areas such as garages, basements or lower-level rooms. Regular cleaning helps ensure rainwater can drain away efficiently during storms.
4. Improve Drainage Around Your Property
Surface water should always drain away from your home, not towards it. Poor drainage can cause water to pool around your foundations and eventually seep inside.
Check that:
If you notice standing water during rain, improving drainage or installing additional channels may help reduce the risk of flooding.
5. Seal Gaps Around Doors and Windows
Wind-driven rain can enter homes through small gaps that may not normally cause problems.
Inspect around doors and windows for:
Sealing these gaps can help prevent water entering your home during heavy storms.
6. Trim Overhanging Branches
Trees close to your home can increase the risk of storm damage and blocked gutters. Overhanging branches may break during strong winds or heavy rain, potentially damaging your roof or allowing water to enter your home. They can also drop large amounts of leaves and debris into your guttering system, which may lead to blockages and overflow during storms. Regularly trimming back branches that extend over your roof helps protect your property and keeps your gutters clear so rainwater can drain away effectively.
Basements and lower-level spaces are often the most vulnerable parts of a home during heavy rain.
If your basement feels damp or has a persistent musty smell, there may already be a moisture issue that could worsen during a storm.
Some preventative steps include:
Seal small cracks
Use masonry sealant to repair minor cracks in basement walls. Larger cracks may require professional inspection.
Raise appliances
If your laundry appliances or water cylinder are located in the basement, consider raising them on plinths to keep them above potential water ingress.
Test sump pumps
If your home has an internal sump pump, test it by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to make sure it activates properly before heavy rain arrives.
If severe weather is expected, taking a few quick steps around your property can help minimise the risk of flooding and water damage.
Secure Outdoor Items
Loose outdoor furniture, bins or garden equipment can become hazards during storms. They may also block drains or damage property if blown around.
Bring these items inside or secure them before heavy winds or rain arrive.
Clear Drains and Gutters
If rain is forecast, do a quick check of your gutters and outdoor drainage areas. Clearing any visible debris can help prevent water from backing up during the storm.
Prepare Vulnerable Areas
Garages, basements and ground-level rooms are most at risk during flooding. Move valuables and stored items off the floor where possible.
Consider Temporary Flood Barriers
If your property is in a low-lying area, sandbags or modern flood barriers can help protect entry points such as garage doors or basement entrances.
Check Retaining Walls
If you have retaining walls, make sure the weep holes (small drainage holes at the base of the wall) are clear so water pressure doesn’t build up behind the structure.
Storm readiness and regular home maintenance are some of the most effective ways to prevent flooding at home and protect your property.
While no home is completely immune to extreme weather, simple preventative steps, from clearing gutters to checking plumbing, can significantly reduce the risk of serious water damage.
If flooding does occur, acting quickly is critical to limit damage.
Many homeowners assume they must wait for their insurance company before arranging help, but delaying water extraction and drying can lead to further problems such as structural damage or mould growth.
If you are having trouble getting through to your Insurer, please get in touch with us and we can get our process started to minimise the damage.
JAE is an insurance-approved supplier for major insurance providers across New Zealand. We will just need to know your Insurer and your Policy Number while you await a claim number.
FAQ Section
Q: How can I stop water damage early during a storm?
A: The most effective way to stop damage early is to ensure your gutters are clear and your drainage grates are free of debris. If water begins to enter, move valuables to higher ground and call a professional restoration service like JAE immediately to begin water extraction.
Q: What are the early signs of water damage in a home?
A: Common early signs include musty smells, damp carpets, water stains on ceilings or walls, peeling paint, warped flooring, or visible mould growth.
Q: How do I know if my house is at risk of flooding in NZ?
A: You should check your local council for information on flood maps and review your property's LIM report. These usually show overland flow paths and flood-prone zones based on historical data.
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