Why does my gutter overflow in heavy rain?
Compare blockage, poor fall, insufficient capacity and outlets overwhelmed by intense rainfall.
Read guide →DampUK practical guides
Gutters and rainwater
Rainwater should move away from the building through gutters, downpipes, gullies and suitable drainage. Overflow can be mistaken for a damp-proofing problem.
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Questions answered in this section
Can a leaking gutter cause damp indoors?
Persistent wetting of external masonry may penetrate through defective details.
Read guide →Why is water running behind my gutter?
Inspect gutter position relative to the roof edge and underlay support.
Read guide →Can a blocked downpipe cause damp?
Rainwater can overflow at joints or at the gutter head and wet nearby walls.
Read guide →Why does a downpipe leak at a joint?
Loose brackets, misalignment, cracks and seals can allow intermittent discharge.
Read guide →Can a blocked gully flood the house?
A blocked rainwater gully can redirect runoff toward low thresholds.
Read guide →Why is water pooling against my house?
Check paving falls, hard landscaping and drainage outlets rather than assuming rising damp.
Read guide →Can a leaking underground drain cause damp walls?
Pipe defects, trapped surface water and ground conditions can be related but need evidence.
Read guide →Why are gutters overflowing although they look clear?
Poor alignment, undersized outlets and hidden obstructions can still affect drainage.
Read guide →Do gutters need replacing or repairing?
Assess actual condition, fall and capacity before agreeing to complete replacement.
Read guide →Can high ground levels bridge a damp-proof course?
Paths and garden beds may create a damp path past an otherwise sound DPC.
Read guide →Why is my driveway sending water into the garage?
Surface levels and drainage channels influence where stormwater collects.
Read guide →Can a blocked soakaway cause damp?
Overloaded or failed soakaways may leave water collecting near foundations.
Read guide →Why is the patio flooding beside the wall?
Drainage falls and blocked outlets can concentrate rainfall at the building.
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