Typical signs
- Persistent puddles, splash marks on lower cladding, sunken soil near the home.
- A downspout discharging at the wall, erosion, full window wells or recurring frost.
Where it is often found
- Around the perimeter, at downspout outlets, near drives and at low spots in the site.
What it can mean
- Negative grading, too-short discharge, settled soil or insufficient surface drainage.
What to check next
- Observe water pathways during rain or melt.
- Measure slope and check the condition of gutters and window wells.
Reasonable immediate actions
- Temporarily extend downspouts and clear drains/swales.
When to stop and call a professional
- Major grading work, retaining walls, complex buried drainage or leakage that persists despite surface fixes.
Prevention
- Maintain gutters, extend downspouts, keep positive grading and manage low spots.