In the Lower Mainland, water is the number one enemy of a house. Months of steady rain test every roof, gutter, window and foundation. Most water damage starts small and hidden, so knowing where to look saves a lot of money.

Start at the roof and gutters

  • Keep gutters clear, especially in fall when leaves and needles build up.
  • Make sure downspouts are connected and carry water well away from the foundation.
  • Watch for moss on the roof. It holds moisture against shingles and can lift them over time.
  • Check flashing around chimneys, skylights and roof-to-wall joints, where leaks often begin.

Direct water away from the foundation

The ground around the house should slope away from it. Flower beds, patios and landscaping that slope toward the walls send water straight to the foundation every time it rains.

Many older homes rely on perimeter drain tile around the foundation. Over the decades these drains can clog with roots and silt. If a basement gets damp after heavy rain, a camera inspection of the drains by a drainage contractor is often the next step.

Windows, doors and the building envelope

Failed caulking and missing or poorly installed flashing let water behind siding and stucco. BC’s leaky condo era showed how serious hidden envelope moisture can become. For condos and townhomes, the strata’s depreciation report and maintenance records show how the building envelope has been managed.

Inside the home: plumbing

  • Poly-B piping. This grey plastic supply line was common in homes built roughly between the late 1970s and mid-1990s and is prone to failure. Many insurers ask about it.
  • Water heaters. Tanks have a limited service life. Check the age and look for rust or moisture at the base.
  • Hidden leaks. Stains on ceilings, soft flooring near toilets and tubs, or musty cabinets under sinks are worth investigating.

How we look for water

Every Foxhound inspection includes thermal imaging, which helps find cool, damp areas behind finishes. We follow up with moisture-meter readings where appropriate, and a drone gives a close view of roof areas that aren’t safe to walk.

A quick seasonal routine

  • Fall: clean gutters, check downspouts and shut off exterior hose bibs.
  • Winter: after big storms, look in the attic and around windows for signs of water.
  • Spring: treat roof moss and re-caulk where needed.
  • Summer: repair grading and landscaping that slopes toward the house.

Buying a home and want to know how it handles water? Learn about our home inspections or get an instant quote.