When moving house, prepare the foundation drain system immediately to prevent water intrusion that can cause major damage.

Start by inspecting the sump pump and its check valve for proper operation and a recent power backup test. Lift the float switch manually to confirm the pump activates and watch the discharge line for steady flow away from the foundation. Trace the discharge line to ensure it terminates at least ten feet from the house on a slope that carries water away, and confirm the line is intact without cracks or animal nests. Walk the perimeter and verify grading slopes away from the foundation a minimum of six inches over the first ten feet so surface runoff does not head toward the walls. Run water from a hose near the foundation and observe whether it puddles or drains; repeat this test at roof downspout outlets to ensure they convey water well away. Finally, clean gutter spouts and screen them to stop debris from entering downspouts and causing backups that can overwhelm perimeter drains.

A common problem is a nonworking sump pump caused by power failure or a failed float switch. Test with power on and again simulating an outage with a battery or backup system and replace components showing erratic behavior. Another frequent issue is poor grading that funnels surface water to the foundation which you can correct by adding clean fill and compacting to create proper slope and by installing a surface swale to redirect flow. The third is clogged downspouts and discharge lines that trap water; unclog by removing debris with a plumber snake or high pressure hose and secure extensions so they do not disconnect under flow.

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