Make sure that your home is ready for this season’s rainfall with the helpful guide. It is as important to protect your home from the rainy. It pays to plan ahead of the rainy season to be prepared but it is better than to fix after everything is broken.

1.​​ Be prepared

It might look sunny outside but the weather can change quickly during rainy season. So never risk it and make sure that you shut all your windows when leaving your home.

2. Get watertight

When it rains it pours. And sometimes it feels like it is coming in from all directions. Therefore make sure that all the seals of your windows and doors are watertight. Even the smallest gap can allow water to seep in. So after it has rained check all windows and doors for evidence to know where needed addressing. Rubber sealant is a great temporary means to fill any small gaps and can easily be removed before a more permanent solution is found.

3. Clear gutters and drains

Should you be living in a house in Cambodia it is important to check that the gutters are clear of leaves or any other debris that can restrict the flow of water. Any blockages will cause rainwater to seek alternatives routes that could result in overflowing causing damage to your home. Likewise it is important to check any drains such as those in your toilet, as much of the flooding in Phnom Penh is a result of the drainage not being able to cope with the sudden rise in surface water during rainy season. Remove any debris and should you not be able to clear it yourself seek the help of a professional who will be able to clear it with the right equipment.

4. Check the roof

Again applicable to those living in a house but one of the main culprits of water damage is rainwater coming through the roof. Due to the volume of water that falls in a short space of time, damage can be quick and may need to result in work inside too such as re-plastering. Ideally you should get your roof checked once a year to identify any problems. If not you will quickly know if there is a problem when the floodgates open.

5. Prepare for the worst

It might sound over the top but be prepared for flooding. Make sure you are stocked up at home with plenty of drinking water, have alternative means to light your house such as candles and torches in case there should there be a power cut, and make sure you have suitable waterproof attire ready for when you need to venture out. If you live in a house that is prone to flooding then it is advisable to stock up on sand bags too.

6. Move upwards

If severe flooding is expected there may be nothing you can do to protect your home if you live on the ground floor. But you can protect your belongings by ensuring that nothing is placed on the floor should water enter your home. Move furniture to an upper floor if you can or stack items on top of one other. Place important items together in a waterproof box and store somewhere least at risk from getting wet. These are extreme measures but always worth considering just in case.