What should I inspect and maintain for grading & site drainage?
Use a recurring visual check of grading & site drainage, document changes, follow exact manufacturer instructions, and escalate conditions outside safe user access.
What this means
This exterior & structure system includes pooling, slopes, erosion, window wells, and sump discharge. Useful observations include: Water pools beside foundation, Window well fills with water, Soil slopes toward the house, Sump discharge returns to foundation, Yard erosion is worsening. Inspection frequency depends on age, climate, usage, manufacturer instructions, and prior problems; an observation is not proof of a component failure.
Safe checks
- Photograph and date visible changes from a safe location.
- Compare the affected area with a similar unaffected area and note weather, usage, recent work, and recurrence.
- Keep manuals, service records, warranty details, and model information with the observation.
Stop and get help if
- Leave or isolate the area for gas, carbon monoxide, fire, electrical exposure, collapse, sewage, or rapidly spreading water.
- Use qualified assessment when the source is hidden or the condition is growing, recurring, structural, or beyond normal user access.
Which professional to call
Use a qualified qualified home professional when visible checks do not explain the condition or the work exceeds normal user access.
Find the relevant tradeSource and method
This answer combines HomeSOS's structured triage with safety boundaries supported by a public source. It does not replace inspection.
Health Canada: Home safetyReviewed August 12, 2026