In addition to grading, you need to consider soil types, impermeable conditions you are creating and the resulting stormwater runoff mitigation.

I've lived in Inman Park, Old 4th Ward, Buckhead Chamblee, and Sandy Springs.

Foundation/structural engineer determined a water downspout on one side of the house caused the soil erosion. 

Now it's true that lead dust samples are taken from the ground, usually around windows, but putting top soil on top of the ground would be the route to go there.

it was a joke no need to meet in personI used to work in the City recently took a full time remote job so no more daily city trips for me I live on the jersey shore near Asbury park and sandy hook

The purchase would likely need to be consummated at the higher price in order to establish the "damages" to which you are referring... and then I would refer you back to the other potential issues I raised with respect to a negligence claim.Responding to a demand letter with "go pound sand" is not the same thing as defending a lawsuit.I just don't see any attorney taking this $12K case to trial and that is what you are suggesting as the end game.

To keep it simple the blue states usually afford tenants the most protections so IL and NJ are no stranger to things like this, whereas Oklahoma and Wyoming might be. 

Is it the risk of environmental cleanup liability if there's soil or groundwater contamination?

Perform due diligence, including soil tests, environmental assessments, and surveys to ensure the land is suitable for construction.

@Sandy RLAre you still flipping houses?