A general inspection is a critical part of the home buying and selling process. During this evaluation, your home inspector won’t just examine the utilities, insulation, and roofing; they’ll also look for potential water damage and drainage issues. Here’s what you need to know. 

A Guide to Drainage Problems & Home Inspections

1. Gutters 

Gutters play an integral role in your roofing system. When functioning properly, they funnel water away from your roof to reduce the likelihood of leaking and moisture damage. When gutters and downspouts are clogged with debris or damaged from a storm, the system won’t work properly. As a result, water will linger on the roof and in gutters and can lead to leaks or water seeping into the wall insulation, resulting in mold or mildew growth.

2. Basement Moisture

The basement is essential to the home’s foundation and structural integrity. During an inspection, this part of the house will be examined for signs of moisture, dampness, mold, or foul smells that can indicate stagnant water and the presence of mildew. A home inspector will look for water stains, standing water by the water heater and other appliances, as well as foundation cracks that indicate seepage due to high groundwater pressure surrounding your home. 

3. Grade & Slope of the Property

To reduce the risk of flooding, water damage, cracks, and high water pressure around your home’s foundation, it’s important to have a proper drainage system for your landscape or garden. This often includes leveling an area of land, adding hardscapes and french drains, or creating unique barriers that prevent water from flowing toward your home as opposed to away from it. With this in mind, home inspectors will evaluate the overall grading of a property to ensure it’s leveled, and they will look to see if there is standing water or pooling in the yard indicating a lack of appropriate drainage and absorption. In the report, they’ll include repair recommendations, if needed. 

If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in Suffolk or Nassau counties, NY, contact New Home Inspectors. With over 30 years of experience in the construction industry, you can count on them to provide a comprehensive assessment of the property, including drainage issues. Call (631) 368-1800 to schedule an appointment with a home inspector, and visit their website to learn more about their services.