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Maintenance Guide

HOA Crawl Space & Drainage Maintenance Checklist for the Front Range

Consistent maintenance is the most cost-effective way to protect community assets. Here is a practical seasonal guide for Colorado property managers.

In Colorado's climate, moisture management isn't a one-time event—it's a year-round discipline. For HOAs, catching a disconnected downspout or a failed sump pump early prevents thousands of dollars in remediation costs later.

Spring (March – May)

Focus: Snowmelt & Rain Runoff

  • Inspect downspout extensions: Are they attached and directing water at least 5ft away?
  • Check sump pump discharge lines for freeze damage or blockages.
  • Clear debris from window wells to prevent basement/crawl space flooding.
  • Inspect crawl spaces for standing water after the first heavy rains.

Summer (June – August)

Focus: Irrigation & Ventilation

  • Audit irrigation systems: Ensure no heads are spraying directly on foundations.
  • Check crawl space vents: Are they blocked by overgrowth or debris?
  • Monitor for musty odors, which increase with summer humidity.
  • Inspect for pest entry points (rodents/insects seeking cool spaces).

Fall (September – November)

Focus: Preparation for Freeze

  • Clean gutters thoroughly: Clogged gutters cause roof water to dump near the foundation.
  • Disconnect garden hoses and drain exterior faucets.
  • Ensure crawl space access doors seal tightly to keep out cold air.
  • Check insulation: Replace any fallen bats before winter sets in.

Winter (December – February)

Focus: Monitoring

  • Monitor indoor humidity levels (high humidity can signal crawl space moisture).
  • Check for frozen pipes or drafts from the crawl space.
  • Ensure snow is not piled up against the foundation walls during clearing.

A Note on Foundation Health

Consistent moisture management is the most effective way to minimize foundation movement in expansive clay soils. By keeping drainage and crawl space conditions stable, you reduce the stress on building structures.

If your maintenance checks reveal signs of movement—such as diagonal cracks in drywall, sticking doors, or uneven floors—we can help. While we are not structural engineers, we can assess the underlying conditions and coordinate necessary repairs as part of a broader moisture control plan.

When to Call a Professional

If your maintenance checks reveal standing water, persistent musty smells, or mold growth, it’s time for a professional evaluation. Addressing moisture issues early is far cheaper than remediating structural rot or extensive mold later.

Schedule a Community Walkthrough

We help HOAs and property managers identify crawl space, moisture, and foundation risks before they become liabilities.