Fall in New Jersey often means more than cooler days and changing leaves — it’s also the season for tropical storms and heavy rain events. And as we’ve seen in recent years, even homes outside of flood zones can be impacted. The good news? With a little preparation, you can dramatically reduce your risk of water damage and keep your property safe.

Start at the Top: Roof and Windows

Your roof and windows are your home’s first line of defense. Take a few minutes to check for missing or loose shingles and repair them right away. Around the windows, look at the caulk — if it’s cracked, dried, or pulling away, replace it. Wind-driven rain will always find the weakest spots, so sealing things up before a storm is key.

Sump Pumps: Your Basement’s Best Friend

If you have a sump pump, test it before the next storm. Many water damage claims happen simply because the pump doesn’t kick on when it’s needed. If your pump is 20 years old or more, replace it. It’s just not worth gambling with an old unit during a storm.

Add a Backup

Since power outages often come with big storms, consider adding a battery-powered backup sump pump. That way, even if the lights go out, your basement still has protection.

Keep the Power On

A generator is one of the best investments you can make for storm preparedness. A whole-house generator offers peace of mind, but if that’s not in the budget, a portable gas-powered generator can still keep essentials like the sump pump, fridge, and lights running. Just be sure you have the right cords to safely reach everything.

Clear the Path for Water

Water needs somewhere to go. Make sure your gutters are clean and downspouts are directing water away from your foundation. Also, check that any exterior storm drains are clear before and during heavy rains. A clogged drain can turn a minor storm into a major problem in no time.

Regular Maintenance Pays Off

Little things add up. Loose siding, cracks in your foundation, or poorly graded soil around your home can all become big issues when the rain starts falling. A quick walk-around of your property a few times a year can save you a lot of trouble later.

Don’t Overlook Flood Insurance

Here’s something a lot of homeowners don’t realize: your standard homeowners policy does not cover flood damage. And you don’t need to live in a high-risk flood zone to buy flood insurance. In fact, policies for lower-risk areas are often much more affordable than people expect. Considering how unpredictable storms have become, it’s worth looking into.

Final Word

We can’t control the weather, but we can control how prepared we are for it. By taking a few simple steps now — checking your roof, maintaining your sump pump, keeping drains clear, and having a backup plan for power and flooding — you’ll be in a much better position to protect your home when the next big storm rolls through.

Take action now, before the forecast calls for heavy rain. Your future self will thank you.

Feel free to contact me with questions.

Office: 908-664-1500 x564

Cell: 908-917-4189

Email: Wayne.Zuhl@gmail.com