Inspector's check · Outside and roof
Does the ground slope away from the house on every side?
Walk the perimeter. Soil, mulch and patios should fall away from the foundation, about 6 inches over the first 10 feet. Look for low spots, puddles after rain, and mulch piled against the siding.
Why it matters
Water that runs toward the house soaks the soil against the foundation, which leads to damp basements, cracks and mold.
If it's a problem
An inspector would write it up as “Grading slopes toward the foundation” and rate it fix this year. Your options, with rough U.S. costs:
- DIY (usually best), $50 to $300: Add and tamp topsoil against the foundation to build a slope away from the house; pull mulch back from the siding.
- Handyman, $400 to $1,500: Regrade low areas with fill soil and reset mulch beds.
- Pro, $1,500 to $6,000: Landscaper regrades the yard or adds a swale or French drain.
Keep it from coming back: check grading and drainage around the foundation.
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.