Site and Environment

Monitor the following:

Poor drainage: Most problems with moisture in basements are cause by poor site drainage. The ground should slope away from window wells, outside basement stairs and other means of egress. The bottom of each of these areas should be sloped to a drain. Downspouts need adjustment. Water from the roof reaches the ground through gutters and downspouts or directly off roof edges. Because downspouts create concentrated sources of water in the landscape, they should discharge away from the building structure.

Landscaping: Check the location and condition of all trees and shrubbery. Those that are overgrown should be pruned or trimmed. Overhanging branches should not interfere with a chimney's draft, damage utility wires, or deposit leaves and twigs on the roof. Tree roots under concrete walks can cause damage. Roots are usually exposed near the surface and can be cut back. Tree roots can cause foundations to crack by pushing against foundations from the outside.