07/16/2026
The Outside Threat: Vegetation & Grading
🌿 Taming the Trees and Shrubs
Vegetation shouldn't be touching the house. Here is why we call it out:
Roof Damage: Overhanging tree branches can scrape shingles during high winds and provide a literal highway for rodents and pests to enter the attic.
Siding and Moisture: Shrubs planted right up against the siding prevent the home from properly drying after a rainstorm, leading to wood rot, moisture intrusion, and termite highways.
The Fix: Sellers should trim branches at least 6 to 10 feet away from the roof and trim back foundation plants so there is a clear air gap between the greenery and the exterior walls.
🌧️ Grading: Guiding the Water Away
Water is a home's biggest enemy. If the ground around a house is flat or slopes toward the foundation, water will pool against the house during heavy rains.
The Risk: This leads to foundation settling, structural issues, and moisture in the crawlspace or basement.
The Fix: The soil should ideally drop 6 inches for every 10 feet moving away from the foundation. Simply adding some compacted topsoil to create a positive slope away from the house can solve a lot of future inspection issues!
Our Promise: Protecting Your Client & Your Deal
We know that a home inspection can be a stressful time for your buyers. When issues like grading or moisture pop up, our job isn't to scare your client—it's to educate them.
Here is how we partner with you to make the process easier on everybody:
Solutions, Not Just Problems: We don't just point out defects. We clearly explain what the issue is, why it matters, and how it can be resolved. We frame issues in a manageable, customer-focused way so your buyers feel empowered, not panicked.
Exceptional Communication: Great communication is the key to sealing the deal. We take the time to answer all of your client’s questions on-site with patience and professionalism.
Same-Day Reporting: We know time is of the essence during your due diligence period. We guarantee same-day reporting so you and your clients have the information you need to negotiate and move forward immediately.
We are here to be a resource for you and a reassuring guide for your clients.
Ready to book your next inspection?