Water Intrusion Defects

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Water intrusion ranks among the most destructive and expensive problems a Florida homeowner can face. In our hot, humid climate, even minor leaks escalate rapidly into mold growth, structural decay, and hidden moisture damage trapped inside walls.

Green Home Builders' Inspection Department specializes in detecting all types of water intrusion in newer homes—those seven years old or less—and creating thorough documentation that enables homeowners to compel builders to make proper repairs.

Faulty grading around the home is one of the most prevalent causes of water intrusion. When soil slopes toward the structure or drainage systems are inadequate:

• Water accumulates and ponds against the foundation
• Moisture penetrates exterior walls
• Stucco absorbs and retains water
• Foundation materials begin breaking down

Ponding water is never acceptable and nearly always indicates a construction defect. Our inspectors evaluate grading, drainage patterns, and areas where water collects against the structure.

Improperly installed stucco is a primary source of water entry in Florida homes. Builders commonly apply stucco too thin, omit required flashing, or neglect to install adequate weather barriers.

Typical stucco-related water intrusion defects include:

• Cracked stucco permitting water penetration
• Missing or improperly placed control joints
• Absent drainage plane behind stucco
• Moisture accumulation inside wall cavities
• Interior water staining or bubbling paint

Stucco water intrusion frequently remains undetected for months because water enters within the wall system first. Our inspection incorporates moisture readings, thermal imaging, and thorough evaluation of stucco installation standards.

Windows represent one of the most vulnerable entry points for water, particularly in new construction where installation corners are often cut.

We inspect for:

• Inadequate sealing or caulking
• Missing or defective flashing
• Gaps surrounding window frames
• Active leaks during or following rainfall
• Water stains on sills, drywall, or flooring

An improperly sealed window permits continuous water entry with every rain event, resulting in mold, drywall damage, and structural compromise.

Additional water entry points include:

• Sliding glass doors
• Patio and rear entrance doors
• Roof-to-wall transitions
• Utility penetrations (AC lines, plumbing, vents)
• Fascia and soffit openings

When these locations lack proper waterproofing, moisture migrates behind walls and causes extensive hidden damage.

Our inspections identify both visible and concealed warning signs:

• Elevated moisture readings in walls, ceilings, or floors
• Staining or discoloration
• Warped baseboards
• Musty or moldy odors
• Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
• Abnormally high humidity in specific rooms
• Soft or swollen drywall

Even minor symptoms may signal serious hidden problems.

Green Home Builders' Inspection Department delivers a comprehensive assessment that pinpoints the source, extent, and location of water intrusion. We produce a detailed, photo-documented report that homeowners can use to notify their builder or initiate the Florida seven-year defect warranty process.

Our report ensures the builder:

• Repairs the defect correctly
• Addresses every point of moisture entry
• Restores the home to safe, code-compliant condition

Water intrusion is urgent—prolonged exposure multiplies the damage exponentially. Our mission is to expose these problems early and equip homeowners with the evidence needed to secure builder-funded corrections at no cost to them.