Outside the House/Building
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REMEMBER!
Missing or damaged bricks or cinderblocks in a foundation might look like small potatoes, but they could indicate wider structural problems in a building.
• Grading and drainage. Examine the land around a building you are inspecting. If the property is largely flat, are there certain low areas without adequate drainage where rainwater is likely to pool which could seep into your foundation or destroy the grass or landscaping? If the lot slopes, is there a clear path for water to follow around your building in the event of heavy rain?
• Attempts to direct water away from the building. Have there been recent excavations around the foundation, possibly covered by new gravel? These are signs of a probable leaky basement.
• The condition of the land. If the building is set on a lawn, does grass feel firm underfoot? A “squishy” lawn indicates poor drainage or a water problem. Look at adjoining properties with the same considerations in mind since a water problem next door is probably a water problem for your property, too. Also: Look at the curb in front of the property. If drainage hoses emerge from holes in it, they were installed to dispose of water coming from somewhere around the building. In all likelihood, they were installed to correct a leaky foundation.
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