Property & Building Inspection · Task 1 of 19

Site conditions study notes

Water is the enemy: most site findings are about moving water away from the house and keeping walking surfaces safe.

Key points

• Positive grade: about 6 in. of fall in the first 10 ft (IRC guideline) where lot lines allow.
• Downspouts should discharge several feet from the foundation via extensions, splash blocks or drains.
• Keep soil and mulch about 6 in. below wood siding and trim; keep plants and trees off the walls and roof.
• Report trip hazards: heaved, settled or offset walks, drives, patios and steps.
• Retaining walls are reported when they affect the house or create a hazard: leaning, bulging, blocked weeps.
• Out of scope: property lines, zoning, public utilities, pools/spas and fences unless they affect the dwelling.

Exam tip

when an answer mentions drainage toward the foundation, it is usually the concern being tested.

Practise this task

Try free site conditions practice questions with answers and explanations, or look up terms in the glossary.

These notes are an original study aid and may contain errors. Verify against current IRC, NEC and NFPA editions and your state's standards of practice.