Roof leaks and flooded basements and crawl spaces are not uncommon at this time of year. The recent wind and rain storms have put our home’s roofs, gutters, and drainage systems to the test. How is your home holding up? Take advantage of breaks in the weather to take a quick walk around the outside of your home. Inspect the roof for fallen tree branches or debris, especially if you have large trees alongside your home. Make sure the gutters and downspouts are draining properly and diverting water away from the foundation. Don’t forget to do a quick visual inside as well, especially in rooms that aren’t frequently used. An unnoticed roof leak can cause considerable damage in a short amount of time. Water stains, bubbling paint or sagging drywall are all warning signs that moisture is intruding. The same is true for the basement. Inspect along the foundation walls for signs of water intrusion. If you have a crawl space, even a quick peak with a flashlight can expose a faulty sump pump or drainage problem. Being proactive and keeping an eye open for possible problems is the best way to minimize damages.