The first rain after leaves fall can show where runoff needs attention. Start with a walk around the home and make observations from ground level.

Watch the gutters during a rain

Look for water spilling over a gutter edge or dripping from a joint. Note which section overflows and whether the nearby downspout is flowing.

Follow each downspout

Check where the outlet discharges. Look for a disconnected extension, leaves at the opening, or standing water near the foundation. Photograph anything that is difficult to describe.

Make a short work list

Group observations by side of the house. Separate ground-level debris from areas that need a closer inspection. This gives you a record to compare after the next rain.

For related examples, see the sample property cleanup service or return to the benchmark blog.