"Water Water Everywhere" article about effects of water damage on residential properties and homes

Water, Water, Everywhere...

I am protective of my clients. I worry about price, terms, about their rights under the contract, the loan’s APR, inspections and water.

Why am I so concerned about water? Have you been to Meramec Caverns? The force that created that natural wonder is opposed by your home. Don’t panic! We have thousands of years of engineering experience on our side but we still need to take an active role.

A five minute inspection performed every few months can save you thousands. Begin by looking at your gutters. Check to see that the inside edge is flush with the house. Look for water streaks over the edge of the gutter or down the wall. Examine the wall for missing tuck point or patches of mildew. Make sure the downspouts are intact.

If you can’t see up there, don’t worry. There might be telltale signs on the ground. Look for perfect lines of pebbles under the eaves. If you find them, your gutters are dirty or out of line. Low spots or pools of mud may indicate a leak above.

Finally take a look at your downspouts and figure out where the water is going. Try to direct it at least 10 feet from the house and preferably toward the street. (MSD will not allow pipe to the street but has not objected to things aimed that way.)

You have accounted for all the water from your house. Now you only have to be concerned with the rest of the world. The most likely problem is your neighbors’ gutters. You know how neighbors are—they are never as conscientious as you and I. Check out maintenance and direction as it affects you. If you find a problem ask them to address it, send them (or ask us to send them) a copy of this newsletter, redirect the offending water yourself or invest in attorneys - whatever strategy seems most effective.

Chances are pretty good that your house was built on an appropriate grade but years have passed since then. The plats once neatly drawn by the architect have now taken on all the character of human activity - alleys and driveways have been paved, landscaping done, sheds and garages built/removed. Past clients have requested that their city build curbs and redirect culverts but it might be less stressful to invest in perforated drainpipe and send your problems downstream.

Written out like this it all seems intimidating but I stick by the five minute inspection. Remember, if all these things were wrong you never would have bought your home.

If you find a problem you can’t figure out, feel free to call me at 314-772-4663. If you can’t find anything, go in the house and relax. You’ve done your part to protect the American Dream.

Mark Magas, ePro