If the general terrain around your home is inclined, is it a gentle, sloping incline or a steeply sloped incline, and in which direction does surface water flow? America’s Home Inspections will focus on this primary point of concern to determine the possibility of surface water movement towards the house and eventual penetration into the below grade areas. If your land slopes downward from the street to the house, your house may encounter serious drainage problems. The surface water, if not properly diverted or controlled may accumulate around the foundation, or it may collect or pond on the lawn.