By Barry Stone
Dear Barry,
I bought my home less than a year ago. At the time, the adjacent property was being prepared for construction, and the lot had just been regraded. But the regrading created problems, as revealed by the first rains. Water from that property now drains into my yard. Are there any laws of statutes that require developers to avoid drainage onto other properties? - Annie
Dear Annie,
Builders and developers who alter the drainage characteristics of a construction site should assume responsibility for the effects such changes have on adjoining properties. However, laws governing such situations vary from one state to another. Therefore, you should consult your local building department, and possibly a private attorney, to determine your legal position and the liability of those who regraded your neighbor's lot. If they are legally responsible, then drainage improvements should be made to divert water flow away from your yard.
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