Grading and drainage deficiencies are often a problem in common interest communities and can cause significant damage if not remedied in a timely fashion. Proper drainage is very important, and the deficiency should be identified as soon as reasonably possible, or the community could be faced with expensive restoration costs.

There are various types of drainage concerns, which aren’t always within the grass areas of a community. There could be deficiencies in the pavement and concrete areas of a community as well.

Some obvious signs of drainage deficiencies are water infiltration, raised or cracked concrete, a lake or ponding on the lawn area or a small stream in between homes and/or buildings, ponding on the roadways, sidewalks flooding, icing, and forms of soil erosion are all examples of drainage deficiencies.

Plans and specifications are a vital part of any grading and drainage, paving, landscaping, and concrete type project. Having the proper grade for hardscape surfaces is just as important as having them for landscape surfaces. They both need the proper slope for water to drain correctly.

If the grading isn’t properly determined when paving roadways or placing concrete, this could lead to ponding in front of driveways, at the edge of handicapped ramps and in front of refuse enclosures, where residents are attempting to access the containers. During winter months, there’s the possibility of freezing.

Generally, an experienced engineer can determine the cause of the deficiency and recommend various restoration options relatively quickly. Then it’s a matter of developing a comprehensive plan specification for the restoration. There are various restoration solutions for grading and drainage deficiencies. Some include regrading or excavation of certain areas, installing additional catch basins, redirecting downspouts from gutters, building a retaining wall, and building a trench or ditch to name a few.

The importance of retaining a professional Engineering firm is, they are educated in this field of work and will develop the best solution possible. They can also be responsible to ensure the work is completed correctly. This takes the responsibility away from the Association, the Board and the Property Managers.