The monsoon-ready home checklist

The first heavy shower of the season is the worst time to discover a blocked drain or a seeping wall. A little preparation in late spring saves a lot of stress later.

Start outside: clear terrace and balcony outlets of leaves and debris, and check that downpipes are firmly attached. Inside, look for hairline cracks near window frames — these are the most common entry points for water.

Electrical safety matters too. Get any loose switchboards or exposed wiring fixed, especially in balconies and bathrooms. If your inverter or geyser trips often, have a professional take a look before the humidity makes it worse.

Finally, book a pest-control treatment a couple of weeks before the monsoon. Damp corners attract cockroaches and termites, and prevention is far cheaper than repair.