Storm and water damage in Akron, Summit County
Akron has a large stock of early-20th-century homes built during the rubber industry boom, many with basements and older drainage. The Cuyahoga River and Little Cuyahoga River run through the area.
Roof and hail
Older Akron homes often have steep roofs, multiple layers, and aging flashing around chimneys. Wind and hail can expose these weak points, so a roofer should check flashing, not just shingles.
Water and basements
Many older Akron neighborhoods have combined or aging sewer lines, and basement backups during heavy storms are a common issue. A backflow valve and a sewer backup endorsement can help.
Sewer backup
Akron is one of the Ohio cities with a combined sewer system in older neighborhoods, where stormwater and sewage share the same pipes. The city's Akron Waterways Renewed! program, including the Ohio Canal Interceptor Tunnel, was built under a federal consent decree to cut combined sewer overflows. Heavy storms can still overload local lines, so a backflow valve and a backup endorsement are worth having in older Akron homes.
Mold
Older basements with past water events, plus humid summers, make mold common in Akron homes. Fixing drainage is usually step one.
Permits
Contact the City of Akron Building Inspection division or your suburb's building department.
How Ohio Damage Response works
- Tell us what happened using the form (about 60 seconds, photos optional).
- Get matched with up to three independent contractors who serve your ZIP code.
- Free inspection: the contractor inspects, documents damage, and quotes. You decide whether to hire anyone.
Akron damage guides
Nearby communities
Cuyahoga Falls, Stow, Barberton, Fairlawn, Tallmadge, Green, Hudson
Other areas
Frequently asked questions
Does Ohio Damage Response serve Akron and nearby towns?
Yes. We connect homeowners in Akron, Summit County, and nearby communities including Cuyahoga Falls, Stow, Barberton, Fairlawn, Tallmadge with independent local contractors.
Do I need a permit for roof or damage repairs in Akron?
Often yes for roof replacement and structural work. Contact the City of Akron Building Inspection division or your suburb's building department. Reputable contractors usually pull permits for you.
What are common storm damage problems in Akron?
Older Akron homes often have steep roofs, multiple layers, and aging flashing around chimneys. Wind and hail can expose these weak points, so a roofer should check flashing, not just shingles.
Why do Akron basements flood?
Many older Akron neighborhoods have combined or aging sewer lines, and basement backups during heavy storms are a common issue. A backflow valve and a sewer backup endorsement can help.
What should I know about sewer backups in Akron?
Akron is one of the Ohio cities with a combined sewer system in older neighborhoods, where stormwater and sewage share the same pipes. The city's Akron Waterways Renewed! program, including the Ohio Canal Interceptor Tunnel, was built under a federal consent decree to cut combined sewer overflows. Heavy storms can still overload local lines, so a backflow valve and a backup endorsement are worth having in older Akron homes.
Referral disclosure: Ohio Damage Response is a free referral service, not a contractor, insurer, or public adjuster. We do not perform work. Independent contractors may pay us a referral fee. Verify any contractor's licensing/registration, insurance, and references before hiring.