What Causes Water to Pool Around a Home's Foundation?

Soil that slopes toward the house directs rainwater right to the foundation. Over time, settling or landscaping can change the grade so water has no natural path away. You can check the slope yourself with a long level or a hose: water should flow away from the walls.

If the ground is flat or dips near the foundation, water collects there after every storm. The pros can re-grade the soil to create a proper slope, but sometimes the fix is simpler, like adding topsoil or extending downspouts. Start by inspecting the grade around your entire home.

In areas with heavy rainfall or snowmelt, the soil can become saturated and water has nowhere to go. A high water table means the ground below your home is already full of moisture, so any additional water sits on the surface. This is more common in low-lying parts of a yard.

After a long wet spell, you might see puddles that last for days. The pros can install a French drain or sump pump to lower the water level around the foundation. For a quick check, see if water drains within a few hours or if it stays pooled.

Sprinklers and irrigation systems that run too long can saturate the soil near the foundation, mimicking the effects of heavy rain. If you water your lawn right next to the house, you might be creating the pooling yourself. Adjust sprinkler heads to avoid hitting the walls.

Also check for leaking pipes or hose bibs near the foundation. A slow leak underground can keep the soil wet and cause water to pool on the surface. The pros can help locate hidden leaks and recommend drainage solutions if overwatering isn't the cause.

• Adjust sprinkler heads to avoid the foundation
• Water early in the day to reduce runoff
• Check for dripping outdoor faucets
• Inspect irrigation lines for leaks
• Avoid planting water-loving shrubs right against the walls