Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - The first of the summer rains have arrived. There is no better time than right now to get your home ready for the annual deluge and checking it thoroughly for drips and leaks.

The average amount of rainfall in the Puerto Vallarta area between the beginning of June and the end of September is about 47 inches, or 119 centimeters. That's a good deal of rain in a relatively short amount of time, so being prepared is key.

Start at the top and work your way down. Thoroughly check the roof for cracks. Remember that the crack may not correspond to where the drip is located in the home below. Look for places where the water pools and make sure all drains are free of debris. If you have roof tiles, make sure to replace broken or cracked ones.

Inside your home, check for spots that look damp or other signs of water leakage. This could be water rings, mold, or wall or ceiling discoloration. Making any necessary repairs to fix the issue now will prevent it from happening again during the upcoming rainy season.

Tackle your doors and your windows. Make sure they close and seal properly. Then make any repairs or improvements as necessary. These openings and other parts of the house made of wood can sustain water damage if they're constantly absorbing it. Remember to apply a fresh coat of waterproof varnish for protection.

Perform garden maintenance and be sure dead branches and overhanging vegetation have been cleared from around the house. This will reduce the risk of them falling during a storm and causing roof damage.

If you have a swimming pool, remember to drain it about halfway so that the water won't overflow and ruin your landscape or enter your home.

Leaving your home unprotected when it is constantly exposed to rain can lead to foundation damage. Don't forget to run these checks and make the necessary repairs to prevent them from getting worse.

Many leave Puerto Vallarta for the summer months. If you do, it is imperative that someone is physically checking your property regularly. Edward Padalinski's Puesta del Sol Vallarta management and maintenance services can assist you during your absence. "A member of our team will visit your home or condo weekly," says Edward. "We will make sure all repairs for water damage, mold, mildew, and other items are taken care of promptly so you don't have to worry about your Mexican home."

Edward and his team will make sure your house is in great condition when you return for the winter season. For more information, visit PuestaDelSolVallarta.com.

Ron Morgan Properties specializes in luxury real estate in the Marina Vallarta area and beyond to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and Punta de Mita, as well as along the southern shores of Banderas Bay, from the Romantic Zone, Amapas and Conchas Chinas down to Mismaloya and even Costa Alegre. For more information, visit RonMorgan.net.

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