Walkways and Driveways
Home inspectors normally visually inspect walkways and driveways for trip hazards, maintenance requirements and improper drainage. Some commonly found problems include; Cracked or damaged surfaces, Uneven areas and Improper slope.
Cracked or Damaged - this is more of a safety hazard as appearances are just cosmetic and beyond the scope of most Home Inspection standards of practice. Whenever possible we will also note conditions that will lead to future problems, such as; missing edging, leaning support walls, wood rotting or trees that will be come a problem as they grow.
Uneven - this again is a safety issue and will be readily determined by looking at site. Again we endeavour to make a note of any conditions that might lead or make condition worse, typically through soil erosion etc.
Improper Slope or Drainage - walkways and driveways should slope away from the exterior walls. This will allow water to enter subsoil at foundation and can lead to many problems such as damp or wet basements. Ideally there should be no ponding of water on these surfaces and all water should drain away from home.
Many of these problems can be prevented with proper compaction of soil prior to installing driveways and walkways. Areas close to foundations are commonly found to slope towards house because of lack of compaction. Remember this soil was excavated for the foundation and usually is not compacted when final grading is completed.