Is It Mandatory To Install Rainwater Evacuation Systems In Homes?

One of the most common doubts when you have a single-family home is whether the installation of gutters is mandatory. The answer is yes and no, but the solution is not that easy. It all depends on the type of construction, the municipality and the way in which rainwater is collected.

In this article All About Gutters Inc. explain what the law says about it and alternatives that you must take into account when deciding to install rainwater evacuation systems.

Today, the regulations that regulate rainwater evacuation systems in homes is the Technical Building Code. The truth is that until the appearance of this regulation there was no mandatory rule regarding the installation of gutters and downspouts.

Even so, it was common for homes to have them, since not installing gutters causes rainwater from the roof to run down the façade, which can damage it.

On the other hand, the Civil Code tells us that it is mandatory for each homeowner to be responsible for collecting and managing all the water on their property, including sewage and rainwater, and making the necessary facilities for it to be evacuated correctly.

According to the law, in no case can you allow rainwater to be poured onto the neighbor. Similarly, downspouts that drain into the street sidewalk should not be placed. And, although it is said that you have to use the connections to evacuate the rain, the most important thing is that as long as it falls inside your property, no one can force you to do the installation.

As for the municipal regulations, it is more or less the same, that is, as long as the roofs of the chalet do not spill into the street or the neighbor's plot, there is no legal obligation to install storm drains. However, each municipality has its own regulations, although it is usually mandatory to install gutters if the water falls outside your property. A professional gutter company can advise you on the best method of complying with the law while protecting your façade and foundation.

Alternatives to the gutter system

Rain barrels, with which to collect and recycle seasonal rain. They are placed in each corner of the roof or in the backyard to catch the rain. Rain barrels will help you save money by reducing water use for lawn and garden care. Choose one that has a water spigot to release the amount of water you need. Large capacity underground dry wells. The water that comes out of the dry well will keep the lawn and garden green during the dry spells of summer.

Rain chains, are usually made of copper. The series of cups slows the rate at which water reaches the ground, meaning it will no longer puddle on your lawn or driveway.

Copper pipes give elegance to your home. While aluminum gutters are more practical, copper brings a rustic aesthetic that aluminum can't compete with. It's best to opt for natural copper which will take on the classic blue-green finish as it weathers.