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Grading And Drainage: "Negative Drainage Conditions"
Grading is essential to a house and home inspector reports often say something like, "Negative drainage conditions."
What is a "negative drainage condition?" 
ANY GRADING THAT DOES NOT ENCOURAGE WATER AWAY FROM THE HOUSE STRUCTURE.
Here is what I say on EVERY report, whether the grading needs attention or not:
"Grading/drainage:  be sure that any surface water or downspout discharge drains easily and well away from the house – a good rule of thumb for soil grading is a slope of 6” in the first 4’ of run away from the house, and 1” of slope for every 4’ of run away from the house thereafter."
Why do I say that on EVERY report?  SO THE CLIENT SEES IT!  I think the report should be educational as well as informational.  And that is GOOD information in anyone's book!
But why?
Certainly this kind of cracking is due to settlement.  The crack is evident on the left just under the vent, and it continues for many feet to the left.  The crack on the right begins at the corner and it continues for many feet to the left.
These are both on the same side of the house.  The house is 45 ... more

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