Grading
The slope of soil around a structure, which should fall away from the foundation to carry surface water off.
What is Grading?
Grading is the first line of defence against basement and crawl space water, and negative grade — soil sloping back toward the house — is among the most common causes of wet basements an inspector will document. General guidance is a fall of roughly six inches over the first ten feet, though local practice varies. Related observations include soil or mulch piled above the siding line, patios and walks pitched toward the house, downspouts discharging at the foundation instead of being extended, and window wells without drainage. Because correcting grade is inexpensive relative to interior waterproofing, it is worth recommending first.