Prepare for Flood Season in Kansas City and the Surrounding Areas.
When storm season arrives, homes in Overland Park and the greater Kansas City area are at risk of flooding and water damage. As a homeowner, being ready before rain, hail, or sudden flooding arrives can make the difference between a minor repair and a full disaster. Flood Rewind specializes in water damage repair in Overland Park, KS, and the greater Kansas City Area. Here is a seasonal checklist to help you protect your property.
1. Inspect & Maintain Gutters, Downspouts & Roof
One of the first lines of defense against water intrusion is the roofing and drainage system.
- Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves, debris, nests, and any blockages so that water can run freely away from the house. Clogged gutters cause overflow and can direct water toward walls or the foundation.
- Check roof shingles, flashing, and seals around chimneys and vents for damage, looseness, or gaps. Even small leaks can allow water to enter attic spaces or walls, eventually affecting the drywall.
- Ensure downspouts direct water well away from the foundation of your home. A sudden downspout dumping water right next to the base can saturate soil and push water toward the basement walls.
Doing this ahead of storms can reduce the amount of water that ends up inside your home and help prevent the need for water damage repair in Kansas City or Overland Park.
2. Examine the Foundation, Grading & Exterior Walls
The way the ground slopes and the integrity of exterior walls are crucial in preventing water intrusion.
- Check the slope or grading around your home. The soil should slope away from the foundation so that water flows outward, not toward the building.
- Inspect foundation cracks or gaps. Even small cracks should be sealed, as water can penetrate through and seep into the basement or crawlspaces.
- Examine exterior walls, siding, and sealants around windows and doors. Look for gaps, peeling caulk, rotted siding, or missing mortar in brick walls. These weak spots often become entry points for water under pressure during heavy storms.
3. Test & Maintain Sump Pumps, Floor Drains & Backup Systems
Flood Rewind’s blog already includes a piece called “Sump Pump Maintenance: 7 Steps to Prevent Water Damage”, so you know how crucial these elements are.
- Run your sump pump and confirm it activates properly when water fills the pit.
- Clean the sump pit and screen from sediment and debris so the pump can pull water freely.
- Install or check battery backup or generator power for your sump pump in case electricity fails during a storm.
- Inspect floor drains and crawlspace drains to make sure they are clear. Sometimes, water backs up into the basement if the drains are clogged or unable to handle a heavy influx of water.
Failing sump systems are a common cause of basement flooding, needing water damage repair in Kansas City, Overland Park, and the greater KC areas.
4. Seal the Basement & Crawlspace
Your lowest-level living spaces are especially vulnerable to pressure and water intrusion.
- Check and seal cracks in the basement walls or floors. Use a masonry or waterproof sealant where necessary.
- Seal around pipes, conduit, or utility penetrations that pass through basement walls or slabs. These are weak spots water can exploit.
- Apply a waterproof coating or membrane if your basement has not already been treated.
- Inspect foundation vents in crawlspaces. Ensure they are closed or sealed when needed to prevent wind-driven rain or flooding.
5. Monitor Plumbing, Roof Leaks & Interior Vulnerabilities
Water damage doesn’t always come from outside. Interior plumbing leaks or roof leaks can also cause trouble.
- Inspect exposed plumbing (pipes, fittings, drains) for slow leaks, corrosion, or signs of dampness.
- Check appliances (such as washing machines, water heaters, dishwashers) and their hoses/connectors for signs of wear or leakage.
- Look for stains, soft spots, bubbling paint, or swelling in drywall or ceilings—these are early indicators of water infiltration.
- Test ceilings, walls, and windows after a heavy rain to see if any water shows up. If you detect even a small leak, it may require drywall repair or other mitigation measures to prevent it from worsening.
Flood Rewind handles drywall repair after water damage and has a specific procedure for how professionals repair drywall, which includes steps such as drying, removal, and reconstruction.
6. Prepare Your Interior & Move Valuables
When flood risk is high, small prep steps can save major losses.
- Elevate valuable items and electronics off the floor or onto shelving or blocks, especially in basements or low areas.
- Store important documents in waterproof containers or in high, dry locations.
- Have plastic sheeting, sandbags, or water barriers ready to deploy if needed (you may not always get notice).
- Keep a supply of drying tools, including dehumidifiers, fans, and wet/dry vacs. After water intrusion, rapid drying is crucial in preventing mold and limiting damage.
Flood Rewind often emphasizes fast and professional action in water damage restoration in Overland Park and the greater Kansas City area to help you limit cost and damage.
7. Document, Insure & Create a Response Plan
Finally, being prepared on paper and in planning helps when disaster hits.
- Take photos and videos of your home’s condition before flood season, including walls, flooring, ceilings, landscaping, and drainage setups.
- Review your homeowner’s insurance and flood coverage. Know what’s included and excluded, and ensure you have accurate coverage.
- Plan a response sequence: when you see water intrusion, who you call first, where you move items, etc.
When flood or water damage hits, having this plan and contacts helps you move faster. Flood Rewind positions itself as a quick and trusted option for water damage repair in Overland Park, KS, and the greater Kansas City area.
Summary & Timing Advice
- The early season (late winter to early spring) is ideal for conducting the bulk of inspections, sealing, and cleaning gutters.
- Mid-season (when storms become more frequent) is a good time to re-check sump pumps and interior plumbing.
- High-risk windows (heavy storms, summer downpours) are when you must be ready with equipment, contacts, and a clear plan.
By following this checklist, you minimize your exposure to emergencies, reduce costs, speed recovery, and protect your home’s structure, interior finishes, and your family’s safety. Call Flood Rewind today with any questions.