Feb 18, 2016
Do You Need a Final Grading Certificate?
If you are from Alberta, you probably remember the devastating floods of 2012 and 2013.
The purpose of lot grading is to protect your home and your neighbours’ homes from the flooding that can be caused by snow, storms, or run-off.
Not sure whether your home has passed a lot grading inspection? Read on to find out whether you need to obtain a final grading certificate.
What is Lot Grading?
Lot grading is an important part of home construction and refers to the creation of slopes and other features to ensure proper drainage away from a property.
“There are two stages of Lot Grading Approval. Generally, the homebuilder assumes responsibility for Rough Grade (under the terms of the sales contract) and the homeowner completes the Final Grade approval.” – City of Edmonton
It is the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain the grading around his or her property. These City of Edmonton videos show cost-effective ways to keep your property safe from flooding.
Lot Grading Certificates
The City of Edmonton requires lot grading certificates in order to complete their inspections and approve the final grading of homes.
These legal documents are created by registered land surveyors, and are provided as proof that there is no risk of drainage issues.
If you are ready to get started, LN offers grading certificates as part of our homeowner surveying packages. We are happy to offer advice so feel free to get in touch for a chat!
You can also check out this helpful and comprehensive guide to the approval process.
Rough vs Final Grading Certificates
In Edmonton, the Builder is responsible for obtaining a Rough Grading Certificate proving that a new home has been built in compliance with municipal bylaws.
After the Rough Grading Certificate has been granted, it is the responsibility of the homeowner to obtain a Final Grading Certificate within one year in order to prove that further landscaping has not interfered with the original grading.
It is possible to skip the Rough Grade Approval Process so long as the builder or property owner is satisfied that downspouts and other drainage systems are in place and working well.
So, Do You Need a Final Grading Certificate?
If any of the following three scenarios apply, then the answer is yes!
– You are the proud owner of brand new single family home (detached or semi-detached/duplex).
– You are redeveloping your property and want to regrade the lot.
– You are re-landscaping your property and plan to make major changes.
Remember: that amazing water feature or elevated flower bed may affect the slope of your lot and therefore your flooding risk. If you want to landscape your property, make sure you aren’t disturbing the original grade or seek approval in advance of any significant alterations.
Lot Grading Inspection
Once a homeowner has obtained the Final Grading Certificate from their land surveyor, they submit it to the City of Edmonton who will inspect the lot within 5 days.
If any changes need to be made these will be the responsibility of the homeowner, so you may want to hold off laying down sod or adding expensive final touches until approval is granted.
Ready to Get Started?
LN has helped hundreds of Albertan homeowners with residential surveys, final grade certificates, and lot grade design and management.
To find out how we can help you, request a quote, or call us at 780.488.9064.