Autumn storms on the Costa del Sol: a home checklist

Why autumn rain catches people out

After a long dry summer, the first heavy rains of autumn can arrive quickly and in large amounts. Terraces, gutters and drains that have collected dust, leaves and sand all summer are suddenly asked to carry a lot of water.

Ten minutes of preparation before the forecast turns is far easier than dealing with a flooded terrace or a damp patch on a ceiling afterwards.

Before the rain: drains, gutters and terraces

Clear terrace drains, roof gutters and downpipes of leaves, sand and debris, and check that water can run freely away from doors and garage entrances. Sweep the terrace first, so loose dirt does not wash straight into the drain.

Move cushions, rugs and lightweight furniture indoors or under cover, and secure parasols and shutters. Check that window and door seals are intact, as a gap you never noticed in summer shows up fast in a storm.

After the storm: clean and dry

Rainwater in this area often carries a film of dust, so terraces, glass and outdoor furniture can look muddy once everything dries. Rinse with clean water and a soft brush, and wipe windows once they have dried to avoid streaks.

Look inside as well: check ceilings, window frames and the corners of walls for new damp patches. If anything got wet, open the windows when the weather allows and let the air move so damp does not settle and turn into mould.

Things that are easy to forget

Empty any water that has collected under pots, in tracks of sliding doors or on the lid of a pool cover, as standing water attracts dirt and, later in the season, mosquitoes. Check the garage, storage rooms and basement for water, and keep valuables off the floor.

If a property is empty, ask someone to check it after heavy rain. A small leak found within a day is a minor repair; found weeks later, it is not.

Where Lavanda can help

If you are away or simply short of time, Lavanda can open up and air your home, wipe down glass and terraces and report anything that looks wrong after bad weather. Book online to see the starting price; we confirm the final price for your property before the clean.