Rainfall in Costa Rica

The rainy season in Costa Rica runs from May to December. The average rainfall across the country is around 3.5 meters. Most of that total amount of rain will come over less that 15 days. This means that when it does rain in Costa Rica it is torrential. Such large amounts of rain is such a short period of time can have a very big effect on land and properties. Precautions need to be taken when building a property on a new lot of land plus drainage needs to be checked when buying an already built piece of real estate in Costa Rica. The rain can effect a property in two ways. One if via erosion, this is mainly related to properties build on or near steep inclines. A lot of rain can cause a land slide and part of a hill can slip downwards and into your property. This can be very dangerous to both you and your property. The other type of problem comes from insufficient drainage. Water backs up and before you know it you are wading through you lovely new house.

Drainage checks – Make sure there is sufficient drainage that channels potential rain fall away from the house. If in doubt add rain channels.

Soil samples – If you are interested in buying a piece of land on a steep hill or near water invest a few hundred dollars to make sure that the land is stable. This small cost is worth every penny in peace of mind the safety of your investment.

Stabilization – Areas of open soil with no or only short rooted plants are danger zones. You can protect against this by planting some deep rooted vegetation or building retaining walls to prevent water run offs gouging into fast flowing brooks across you land and house.

Rainfall problems are just a fact of life in Costa Rica and should not put you off buying your dream home or plot of land. Just take the necessary precautions. If in doubt seek some local advice.