Grading and Drainage Standards
Coverage Summary
| Issue | Covered | Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ponding >24 hrs within 5' of home | ✓ | 1 year | If original grade not altered |
| Ponding >72 hrs in swales (within 10' of foundation) | ✓ | 1 year | If original grade not altered |
| Settlement >4" in backfilled areas | ✓ | 1 year | Will fill to restore grade |
| Settlement under exterior concrete | ✓ | 1 year | Will fill visible sunken areas |
| Drainage issues after grade alteration | ✗ | — | Warranty voided |
| Weather-caused changes to non-landscaped yards | ✗ | — | After grading established |
| Temporary issues from new sod watering | ✗ | — | Normal; will resolve |
| Settling in non-excavated areas | ✗ | — | Homeowner responsibility |
Maintaining drainage patterns is YOUR responsibility. Altering the original grading may void your warranty coverage for drainage-related issues.
Performance Standards
Ponding Water Near Foundation
Standard: Water should not stand for more than 24 hours within 5 feet of the residence after rain stops.
Measurement: Standing water duration is measured from when precipitation ends.
Swale Drainage
Standard: Water should not stand for more than 72 hours in drainage swales within 10 feet of the foundation.
Condition: Coverage requires that the final grade installed has not been altered by the homeowner, landscaper, district, or HOA.
Settlement in Backfilled Areas
Standard: Backfilled or excavated areas around the foundation and utility trenches should not settle more than 4 inches during the first year.
Coverage: Classic Homes will fill settling areas to restore grade, provided you have not changed the grades, swales, and drainage patterns.
Settlement Under Exterior Concrete
Standard: If settlement occurs under exterior concrete during the first year, Classic Homes will fill visible sunken areas.
What's Not Covered
The following are excluded from warranty coverage:
- Drainage issues after grade alteration - If you, your landscaper, district, or HOA alter the drainage pattern after closing, Classic Homes reserves the right to void this Limited Warranty
- Weather-caused changes - Classic Homes is not responsible for weather-caused changes to non-landscaped yards after grading is established
- Temporary issues from new sod - New sod installation and extra watering can cause temporary minor drainage problems
- Settlement in non-excavated areas - You are responsible for settlement in areas that were not excavated during construction
- Water features within 10 feet - Water features installed within 10 feet of the foundation may void your Limited Warranty
Filing a Claim
If you believe you have a warranty issue:
- Review the Use & Care Guide for maintenance guidance
- Gather information:
- How long has water been standing? (Document with photos and timestamps)
- Location relative to foundation (within 5 feet? 10 feet?)
- Have any grade changes been made since closing?
- Request Service
Related Standards
Care Tips: See Grading and Drainage Use & Care for maintenance and troubleshooting guidance.