A former chemical storage operation with historical groundwater contamination.

Hey everyone,To get to the point: I have an old house in PA, and groundwater is continually intruding/pooling in my in-slab/sub-slab HVAC air intake vents (floor returns).

Hi @Stan TallmanHere are the most logical causesHydrostatic Pressure (Groundwater Seepage) - During or after heavy rain, water in the soil builds up pressure and forces its way up through weak points in the foundation.Slab Foundation Leak or Plumbing Issue - Even though you're on city sewer, it’s still possible for a drain or sewer line under the slab to be cracked or compromised.Improper Grading or Drainage - If water is pooling near the foundation and the grading isn't directing it away, it may seep under the slab.Improper Vapor Barrier or Slab Pour - If the vapor barrier under the slab was poorly installed—or skipped altogether—moisture will push upward over time.

When I vet a future-proof market, I’m watching for:Improving habitability: Milder summers, cooler nights, stable air quality, lower flood and fire risk.Water security: Access to groundwater, rivers, or steady rainfall.Lower wildfire exposure: Coastal edges or greener corridors where burn risk is historically lower.Existing migration momentum: People already relocating from higher-risk zones like the Southwest or parts of Northern California.Cost of living: Still affordable enough that buyers, retirees, and remote workers aren’t priced out.Business/food pivots: Watch vineyards, growers, and small ag operations — many are migrating north for better growing conditions.Coastal Edges Are Back in PlayOne of the most interesting shifts?

I’ve dealt with similar issues in lower-level units, and they can definitely be tricky.Since you’re seeing water damage in both the front and back of the unit, it’s likely a combination of grading/drainage issues and possibly hydrostatic pressure (groundwater pushing in from the outside), especially if it’s a basement-level space.Here’s who I’d suggest contacting, in this order: 1.

not really sure of what the specific issue is but yes, you can do that, just make sure the fabric you use is water permeable you want the ground water to still get through to the tree roots.  

The arena was constructed pretty much all above ground due to flooding and ground water issues.

A Phase I site assessment is a non-intrusive site investigation and does not typically involve the sampling of soil, air, groundwater, and/or building materials.

By using solar lights for street lights, solar leasing for owners instead of only grid energy, using under ground water to water plants etc.

I have seen quite a few homes where the iron is in the  ground water , the people have to monthly clean the sump pit with a garden hose .