Why water movement matters
Repeated water near a structure can affect finishes, soil, foundations, crawlspaces, and interior conditions. One observation rarely proves the entire source or repair design.
Roof runoff and downspouts
Roof coverings, gutters, downspouts, discharge points, and visible splash patterns can provide useful context. Weather and access affect what can be observed on the inspection day.
Visible grading and low areas
Surface slopes, depressions, erosion, ponding evidence, and soil contact may suggest where water collects or travels. The inspector does not perform a survey or calculate drainage capacity.
Hardscape and vegetation
Walkways, patios, planters, retaining elements, and vegetation can change visible water pathways or conceal portions of the site and exterior.
What the inspection is not
The service is not a flood determination, soil analysis, geotechnical study, irrigation test, underground-drain map, waterproofing design, or drainage-engineering plan.
When specialist input may help
Active entry, movement, repeated ponding, significant erosion, damaged drainage components, or structural concerns may warrant evaluation by a drainage, roofing, foundation, or engineering professional as appropriate.
Takeaway
Visible drainage clues are useful context, but source confirmation and repair design may need focused expertise.
Educational-use notice: This guide is general education. It does not replace the signed inspection agreement, a property-specific inspection or report, or advice from an appropriately licensed or qualified professional.
See the Site and Exterior Scope