Separate surface flow from other causes of wet ground
Wet ground may be associated with surface runoff, infiltration constraints, groundwater, leaks or drainage problems. An elevation model alone cannot diagnose which mechanism applies.
Start by recording where and when water appears. Describe the duration, rainfall context and visible drainage features without assuming the cause from a colour on a map.
Use the terrain to prepare the conversation
Inspect relative high and low points and possible contributing slopes. Compare them with observed channels, grading changes and visible structures.
A buried drain cannot be detected simply by routing flow across an elevation raster. Modelled lines are not installation plans or evidence that an existing drain works.
What a drainage assessment may need
Discuss site levels, soil and infiltration evidence, existing drainage routes and lawful discharge options with the responsible local professionals. The appropriate work depends on location and project.
Terraincheck does not size French drains, soakaways, pipes or channels. Avoid selecting excavation depths or discharge points solely from the preview.
Check the location before starting
The US pilot accepts user-drawn study areas within the contiguous-US pilot extent. The worker checks for usable native USGS project-level 1 m elevation data. Coverage is incomplete and may fail for a selected area; no coarser dataset is silently substituted.
Baden-Württemberg remains a separate established German workflow with official ALKIS parcels. US address points and drawn areas are not official parcel boundaries.
What terrain screening cannot determine
Terrain screening does not simulate rainfall, infiltration, sewer capacity or the hydraulic effects of walls and culverts. It cannot predict flood depth, size a drainage system or confirm that a property is safe to build on.
A local catchment is limited to the analysed area. Contributions from beyond its boundary can be unknown. A modelled boundary crossing is not evidence of a real drain or drainage outlet.
Common questions
Does this predict flooding?
No. The screening describes terrain and potential surface flow paths. It does not simulate a storm or predict water levels.
Are PDF reports free?
No. PDFs are paid products. A free preview or analysis access key is not a purchase. Check the pricing page for current sales availability.
Editorial: Terraincheck · Updated 6 November 2026. See our methodology · data sources.
Terrain screening provides preliminary context. Site assessment, engineering design and construction decisions require appropriately qualified professionals.