Seasonal Prep

Sherman Oaks Rainy Season: A Storm Prep Guide

Why Sherman Oaks Storms Cause Outsized Damage

The San Fernando Valley sees relatively little rain most of the year, which means storm drains, roofs, and hillside drainage systems often go unchecked for months. When the rainy season hits, usually concentrated in a handful of intense atmospheric river storms rather than steady rainfall, unmaintained systems get overwhelmed fast. A clogged gutter or a blocked drainage channel that would be a non-issue during a light drizzle becomes a real water intrusion risk during a heavy storm.

Roof and Gutters

• Clear leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts, common under the mature oak and sycamore trees found throughout Sherman Oaks.
• Check that downspouts direct water at least several feet away from the foundation, not straight down next to it.
• Look for cracked or lifted roof flashing around chimneys and vents, a common entry point for ceiling leaks.
• Trim overhanging branches that could drop debris into gutters during a storm.

Hillside Homes (91403): Slope Drainage & Retaining Walls

Homes in Longridge Estates, Royal Woods, and along the canyon-adjacent streets near Coldwater Canyon Avenue and Beverly Glen Boulevard depend on functioning slope drainage systems and retaining wall weep holes to manage runoff. Before the rains, check that:

• Drainage channels along the slope are clear of dirt, leaves, and debris.
• Retaining wall weep holes aren't blocked, blocked weep holes cause hydrostatic pressure buildup behind the wall.
• Grading around the foundation still slopes away from the house, soil can shift over time on hillside lots.

Flats Homes (91423): Storm Drains & Older Plumbing

Properties in Chandler Estates and along the Valleyheart Drive and Woodman Avenue corridor sit closer to the LA River channel and rely on municipal storm drains to move heavy runoff. Before the season starts:

• Check that the storm drain nearest your property isn't blocked by leaves or debris (report blocked public drains to the city).
• Have older clay sewer laterals inspected if you haven't in a few years, heavy rain increases groundwater pressure and can worsen existing root intrusion.
• Confirm sump pumps, if your home has one, are tested and working before the first storm.

During the Storm

Keep an eye on ceilings and walls near the roofline, the first sign of a leak is usually a small stain long before water is visibly dripping. If you notice a new stain during a storm, that's the moment to call, not after it spreads.

After the Storm

Walk the exterior once it's safe to check for new erosion, standing water near the foundation, or shifted downspouts. Catching a small drainage issue after one storm is far cheaper than discovering it after a full season of them.