Before countertops and finishes, figure out where the water goes.
Rain falls on the roof, driveway, patio, pool deck, and landscape. Water may arrive from neighboring properties or high groundwater.
Water follows gravity, not renderings.
Understand the elevations of the lot. Where are the high and low points? Where does water collect? Where does it leave?
Visit after heavy rain if possible.
The finished-floor elevation is one of the most important decisions in the project. Too low creates risk. Too high can create awkward stairs, steep drives, and drainage problems for neighbors.
In flood areas, minimum elevations may be regulated, but think beyond minimum compliance when appropriate.
Driveways are giant water collectors. Make sure they do not channel water toward the garage.
Roofs also collect enormous volumes of water. Decide where gutters, downspouts, scuppers, drains, and landscape discharge will send it.
Water problems often appear years later after settlement, unusual storms, blocked drains, or neighboring construction.
The goal is not to stop water.
The goal is to give it an intentional route.