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Home Inspection: Grounds & Drainage

Home Owner Tips

DOORS & WINDOWS

Doors, windows, and skylights have to put up with a lot: extreme weather, UV damage from the sun, water soaking their upper edges, and all manner of abuse from people trying to open them wan they're swollen or painted shut. Frequently, they also provided early-warning signals for structural failures like rotten framing and undersized footing. So instead of being frustrated when they jam, heed those warnings and look for causes. But above all, maintain them: Install flashing if there is none, caulk gaps to keep water and wind out, and keep them painted and operable.

Inspection Focus

Inspection of the exterior grounds and drainage is visual and intended to determine if the grading is properly carrying surface water away from the foundation. It is based on normal weather conditions at the time of the inspection. Inspectors do not perform a soil analysis or evaluate homes based on geological conditions.

Driveway

Driveways may settle, crack, or deteriorate and should be reported.

Walks & Steps

Walks and steps are inspected for tripping hazards. Walks and steps may be uneven or may settle and should be reported.

Retaing walls

Retaining walls support and hold earth in place for landscaping purposes. Evidence of movement is to be reported. Proper drainage and lateral support measures should be incorporated into the construction of retaining walls and should be reported when these conditions are not present.

Drainage

Ideally, water should flow away from a property in all directions at a rate of one inch per foot for at least six feet. Grading should not slope toward the property and surface water should be channeled to the lowest part of the property away from the structure to prevent pounding of water next to the structure. Provisions should be made for discharging run-off from the guttering system.

Patio / Porch / Decks

Patios, porches and decks are inspected for movement and how they are attached to the property. Signs of settling, warping, or rot may occur, especially where they connect to the property.

Trees & Shrubs

Inspectors observe trees and shrubs to see if they affect the property. The physical condition of the trees and shrubs themselves is not evaluated. Trees and shrubs should not be touching the roof, siding or the electrical service entrance cables.