Answers to important questions regarding the landscaping at your Alturas home.
What is Alturas’ warranty policy regarding trees, sod, and plants?
The Alturas warranty does not cover damage to or loss of lawn, plants, shrubs, or trees due to improper maintenance, such as over or under-watering. These items are not warranted after closing unless specifically noted during the New Home Orientation with an Alturas representative. The irrigation clock is covered by the Alturas Homes One-Year structural warranty.
What are Alturas’ policies regarding standing water and drainage?
The lot grading has been carefully designed to meet the standards set by local municipalities for effective drainage. Homeowners must maintain the established grade to prevent any potential damage to their property, lot, or neighboring areas. The grading of the lot is strategically done to direct drainage away from the house. In case of rainfall, there might be instances of pooling and ponding, especially during landscaping irrigation. It is the responsibility of homeowners to refill settled areas and ensure that water does not collect in trapped areas to prevent crawl space seepage. Typically, water should drain off within 24 hours after normal rain in most areas and within 48 hours in swales, though it may take longer after heavy rain. Homeowners should adjust watering times and patterns if ponding occurs due to irrigation. Please note that Alturas Homes is not responsible for landscaping maintenance, including issues related to standing or pooling water.
Is there a drain on my lot?
In certain instances, a pit drain may be installed on your lot to collect water during rain, snow melt, or heavy irrigation. The purpose of the drain is to gather and distribute water to help with landscape upkeep. Please note the drain is not intended to eliminate all standing water.
My sprinkler system was installed in winter. When will it be activated?
A contracted landscaper will kickstart the irrigation system once water is available in the community, typically around mid-April. This process, occurring within two weeks of water availability, involves adjusting nozzles, spray heads, and programming the irrigation clock. The landscapers will notify you, but if you are missed, reach out to us via the Homeowner Portal. Until the irrigation system is activated, homeowners are responsible for maintaining and hand-watering the landscaping.