01/07/2026
💧 New Construction Grading & Drainage Issues
“New” doesn’t mean “perfect.”
Poor grading and drainage are among the most expensive defects buyers discover after closing.
🚨 What to Watch For
Soil sloping toward the home instead of away
Water pooling near the foundation after rain
Missing swales or drains between lots
Downspouts dumping water at the slab
Neighbor runoff pushing water onto your property
🧠 Why It Matters
Water always wins.
Bad grading causes foundation movement, erosion, mold, and landscaping loss — all expensive to fix.
🏠 How a Realtor Protects You
A seasoned agent knows which builders have grading complaints, which inspectors catch slope errors, and how to document drainage problems before closing.
They make sure your “new” home doesn’t come with a hidden water problem.
Bottom line: A realtor doesn’t just find you a home — they make sure it’s built right.