By David Parks · eXp Realty · The Apollo Group · 2 min read
Good drainage means the ground slopes away from the house and downspouts discharge well beyond the foundation. Poor grading is a leading cause of basement leaks and foundation movement.
Grading is the shape of the soil around a home. A common guideline is a slope of about six inches over the first ten feet, falling away from the foundation.
| Key point | What it means |
|---|---|
| Gutters and downspouts | Collect roof water and send it away. |
| French drains | Buried perforated pipes that move groundwater. |
| Window wells | Need proper drainage and covers to prevent water entry. |
| Sump pumps | Pump collected water out of a pit, often with a battery backup. |
Soil sloping toward the house, settled backfill, downspouts that end next to the foundation, planters against walls, cracked flatwork that tilts toward the home, and sump pumps that do not run or discharge into a safe spot.
Extending downspouts, adding soil to restore slope, and keeping gutters clean can solve many problems at low cost. If you see recurring moisture, consult a drainage or foundation specialist before buying.
This article is general information, not legal, tax, financial or inspection advice. Every home and situation is different, so confirm details with a licensed inspector, lender, attorney or tax professional.
David is a Greater Denver real estate advisor with eXp Realty and The Apollo Group (Colorado broker license FA100103211). He has closed more than $55 million in volume, earned eXp Icon status in 2025, and holds a 5.0 rating on Zillow from 27 verified reviews.
Denver market updates, new listings, and local tips — no spam, unsubscribe anytime.
