Inspector's check · Outside and roof
Do the downspouts drop water at least 4 feet from the house?
Check every downspout. The water should land on an extension or splash block that carries it away, not right at the foundation. Look for disconnected or crushed sections. If one corner of the basement gets damp, start with the downspout above that corner.
Why it matters
A roof sheds hundreds of gallons in a storm, and downspouts dump it all in one spot. Next to the foundation, that is a leading cause of wet basements.
If it's a problem
An inspector would write it up as “Downspouts discharge too close to the foundation” and rate it fix this year. Your options, with rough U.S. costs:
- DIY (usually best), $15 to $80: Add downspout extensions or splash blocks so water lands 4 to 6 feet out.
- Handyman, $150 to $600: Reconnect damaged sections and add extensions or buried drain lines.
- Pro, $800 to $3,000: Gutter contractor installs underground drain lines to daylight.
Get this on your own house's plan
DwellTended builds a seasonal plan for your actual house, shows what needs you this week with rough costs, and reminds you before things are due. Free to start, no inspection report needed.