How to Detect and Prevent Water Damage During Spring Rains

Spring is a beautiful time at Ash Street Housing Cooperative. Trees begin to bud, flowers start to bloom, and we finally get to open our windows to let in the fresh air. But with spring also comes heavy rain—and sometimes, water damage.

While major structural repairs and exterior maintenance are handled by our dedicated cooperative staff (one of the many benefits of living here), there are still a few simple, smart steps you can take as a homeowner to protect your space. A little seasonal upkeep can go a long way in keeping your unit dry, comfortable, and damage-free.

Know What to Look For

Woman crouches by a window, pointing at water damage on the wall. She appears concerned. Wearing a pink shirt and blue jeans.

The first step in preventing water damage is knowing how to spot the signs early. Water doesn’t always enter with a dramatic flood—it often sneaks in quietly and leaves subtle clues. Keep an eye out for:

Damp or musty smells, especially in lower levels
Staining or discoloration on walls, ceilings, or near windows
Soft or bubbling paint
Condensation inside window panes
Rust or dampness around basement window wells

These could all be indicators of moisture getting in where it shouldn’t. If the issue is small—like a bit of condensation or a draft—it might be something you can manage yourself. But if you spot anything that seems larger or persistent, don’t stress. That’s what the Ash Street maintenance staff is here for. Give the office a call and let them take care of it for you.

Window Well Awareness

Air conditioning unit next to a white house wall and a small basement window. Dirt and cables are scattered on the ground.

Basement window wells are one of the most common entry points for water during a heavy spring rain. Over time, these can fill with leaves, mulch, or debris, clogging up drainage and leading to leaks through the basement windows.

Make it a habit to check and clean out your window wells each season, especially before and after a big storm.

Even better, consider installing clear plastic window well covers. They allow light in, help prevent cool drafts, and keep rain and debris out. These covers are inexpensive, easy to install, and available at most local hardware stores.

Watch Your Landscaping

Green plants with long leaves in a landscaped garden bed with white pebbles. Brick house wall and green lawn in the background. Sunny day.

As you plan your spring landscaping, remember: where water flows, it matters. Adding too much soil or mulch directly against your unit’s foundation can trap moisture and lead to leaks over time.

Instead, aim to create a slight slope away from your home, guiding rainwater to flow outward instead of pooling near your walls. If you enjoy gardening, consider lining the area next to your home with decorative rocks or gravel. Not only does it look neat, but it also helps with drainage and prevents excess water from soaking into the ground near your foundation.

Seal and Lock Your Windows

Close-up of a shiny gold window latch on a white frame, against a mesh screen with blurry green trees. Bright and modern mood.

Spring storms can roll in quickly, and an open window—even cracked—can allow water to seep into your unit. A simple overnight storm with high winds can push rain through even the smallest openings.

Make sure to fully close and lock all windows during bad weather. A locked window forms a tighter seal than one that’s just shut. If you notice any minor leaks or drafts, applying some removable weatherstripping from the hardware store can add an extra layer of protection.

Also take time to inspect the seals around your windows. If you notice cracked or peeling caulk, you can gently remove the old material and replace it with fresh, waterproof window caulk. This minor maintenance can help prevent bigger problems later on.

Be Aware of Gutters and Downspouts

Water flows from a white gutter onto wet autumn leaves beside a concrete wall. The vibrant foliage includes red, orange, and green leaves.

While you’re not responsible for gutter cleaning as an Ash Street member, it’s still a good idea to take a quick visual check during or after a rainstorm. If you see water spilling over the edge of the gutter, or pooling next to your foundation, it may be a sign the system needs attention.

Let the office know if you spot anything unusual with your gutters or downspouts, such as blockages, detached sections, or areas where water isn’t draining properly. Catching these issues early can help avoid more serious damage.

Know When to Call the Office

Man in blue gloves and cap repairs appliance in bright room, using tools. Focused expression, tool gauge visible in background.

Living in a cooperative housing community means you’re not in this alone. If you discover any signs of water damage that go beyond a quick fix, don’t wait—reach out to the Ash Street office right away.

Whether it’s a basement leak, a dripping ceiling, or moisture around a window that won’t go away, our maintenance staff is here to help.

That’s one of the greatest benefits of cooperative living: you’re not on the hook for major repairs. Just let us know what’s going on, and we’ll take care of it for you.

Enjoy a Dry, Worry-Free Spring

Red brick house with white porch railing, green lawn, and colorful flowers. Clear blue sky and a tree-lined street in the background.

Rainy days don’t have to mean water worries. With just a little seasonal attention—like cleaning your window wells, sealing up windows, and staying mindful of your landscaping—you can keep your home dry and comfortable all season long.

And if something does come up, you’re backed by a team that’s ready to help. That’s the Ash Street difference.

If you’re not yet a member of Ash Street Housing Cooperative, stop by the office to explore availability and discover why co-op living is the smart, stress-free way to own a home.

One Community, One Street, One Family