What should be done if the soil is even or higher than the top of the foundation?

When the soil is even with or higher than the top of the foundation, recommending correction is essential to prevent water intrusion and potential structural damage. Elevated soil can create conditions where moisture collects against the foundation walls, increasing the risk of water seepage into the basement or crawl space. This can lead to a host of issues, including mold growth, wood decay, and undermining the structural integrity of the building.

Corrective actions may include regrading the soil to ensure proper drainage away from the foundation, installing drainage systems, or addressing landscaping features that contribute to the elevation around the foundation. Ensuring that the soil level is appropriately lower than the foundation is a crucial practice in pest control and structural safety, as it helps mitigate not just pest problems, but also broader structural concerns related to moisture and water damage.

In contrast, suggesting no action or ignoring the situation overlooks the inherent problems associated with improper soil grading, potentially leading to significant long-term consequences. While recommending excavation may seem like a viable option, it is often not the first step needed for correction, as merely removing soil does not always solve the underlying issue of water management. Focusing on correcting the soil elevation is the proactive and responsible approach.