Key takeaways
- Walk the lot with a builder before you close on it.
- Slope, soil and rock influence foundations, drives and drainage.
- Utilities, septic and setbacks can limit where a house can sit.
- Trees and views are assets worth protecting from the first day of site work.
Slope and soil
Middle Tennessee lots often include clay, limestone and hillsides. Slope affects foundations, walkout basements, retaining walls and the length of the driveway. Soil and rock affect excavation and the type of footings needed.
A site walk and, when needed, a geotechnical report give a clear picture before design starts.
Water and drainage
Water decides how long a house stays dry. Look for natural swales, springs, low areas and neighboring runoff. Good grading, footing drains and stone-lined channels move water away from the house and the landscape.
Check flood maps and stormwater rules that apply to the lot.
Utilities, setbacks and rules
Confirm water, sewer or septic, power, gas and internet access, and the distance to each. Setbacks, height limits and overlay rules decide the buildable area, and community guidelines may control materials and colors.
Ask your builder to review the survey and covenants before you commit.
Trees and views
Mature trees add decades of value and shade. A thoughtful site plan protects the finest ones, fences their roots during construction and frames views from the main rooms.
Think about sun path and wind too: morning light in the kitchen and a covered porch on the cool side make a house more comfortable.
Official sites to explore
Brand names and logos belong to their owners. These links open the official websites in a new tab, and we are not affiliated with them.
- Tennessee 811Locate underground utilities before digging.
- Metro Nashville Water Services: StormwaterStormwater and erosion control information.
- Metro Nashville Planning DepartmentZoning, overlays and planning information.
- FEMAFlood maps and disaster preparedness information.
- American Society of Landscape ArchitectsResources on landscape design and site planning.
Quick answers
Should I hire a builder before I buy a lot?
It is a good idea to walk the lot with a builder or designer. They can flag site work and rules that affect the plan.
Can I build on a steep lot?
Often yes. Walkout designs and retaining walls can turn a slope into an advantage.
What is a geotechnical report?
It is an engineer's study of the soil and rock, used to design foundations.
