grading issues with new contraction next door

[Carmen Graves]

Dear BP,

New construction is happening right next to our property. We just learned that they plan to build their sidewalk at least 12 inches higher than ours. The new house itself is a lot higher than ours. We do have some small grading issues around our house, and have experience backyard flooding once with some water flooding into our crawlspace. What can we do to help protect our property from more flooding issues specially having such a gigantic elevated construction happening next door? Should we contact the GC? Should we report to the city/county? Should we get a lawyer? Any thoughts/advice would be highly appreciated. Thanks in advance. 

[Jonathan Klemm]

@Carmen Graves - The First step is to talk to the GC.  I've worked for a huge GC for the last 10 years and more than likely they will be happy to make some modifications.  Keeping the neighbors happy is always on top of a GC's list.  I would personally ask them what the drainage plan is and if they expect any runoff water to come on to your property. 

Now, if the GC isn't willing to make any suggestions or modifications.  Then I would let them know you are considering talking to the city because you believe there may be some runoff water coming on to your property.  Mentioning you may reach out to the City will sometime perk their ears.

Last option would be to hire your own GC or at least get there expert opinion on whether you need to take any drainage mitigation action so your property doesn't get any water in the basement.  Who knows maybe your current grading needs to be revised anyways regardless of the new structure.

Hope that helps!