Gutters & drainage

Gutter, drainage, and foundation inspection guide

Water should move away from the home. Regular exterior and interior checks can surface drainage clues before they become a larger moisture issue.

AssetGutters, downspouts, landscape, and foundation
Core taskCheck where rain and snowmelt go
Typical cadenceSemi-annually and after heavy rain or rapid snowmelt
Watch forPooling, new cracks, stains, dampness, or musty odors

Outside the home

EPA guidance recommends inspecting the exterior foundation and surrounding landscape. Look for soil settlement or pooled water, check roof drain leaders, and note new or changing foundation cracks. Make sure the ground and drainage features are moving water away rather than toward the building envelope.

Inside the home

In basements and similar spaces, watch for water stains, damp materials, efflorescence, peeling paint, mold growth, or a musty smell. Keep dated notes and photos so a professional can see whether a condition is changing over time.

Sources and scope

Foundation and moisture problems can have multiple causes. Contact a qualified professional for persistent water intrusion, structural concerns, or suspected mold.