Atlanta Man Says Habitat for Humanity Construction Caused Severe Water Runoff, Erosion Damage to His Home

ATLANTA, Ga. — A northwest Atlanta homeowner says a Habitat for Humanity property built next door has caused years of erosion and flooding, transforming his yard into what he calls an “unlivable mess.” The nonprofit, however, insists it’s not responsible for the damage.

Homeowner Says Property Was Stable Until New Construction

Miguel Willis, who has lived in his family home for 40 years, said the problems began shortly after Habitat for Humanity built a house on the adjacent vacant lot two years ago.

“Look at this, look at my yard, man,” Willis said. “For them to be Habitat for Humanity, it doesn’t feel humane at all.”

He said water runoff from the new property has eroded the soil, damaged the retaining wall, and left his once-green lawn covered in debris and standing water.

“This used to be turf where my pet could play,” Willis explained. “Now it’s nothing but rock and runoff.”

Independent Inspection Confirms Retaining Wall Issues

After repeated complaints, Willis hired an independent erosion specialist, who determined that the retaining wall was not properly compacted and showed multiple areas of structural weakness. Video footage from the property shows water pouring through the wall and pooling directly into his yard.

“The runoff water has started making canyons, like little creeks inside my yard,” Willis said, adding that he now worries the damage could soon threaten the home’s foundation.

Habitat for Humanity Denies Responsibility

In a statement to Channel 2 Action News, an attorney for Atlanta Habitat for Humanity said the organization’s construction followed all necessary regulations and that erosion on Willis’ property was due to age and pre-existing conditions.

“It can be costly to maintain an older home with a long history of needing major repairs,” the statement read. “Atlanta Habitat is not responsible for water damage to Mr. Willis’ yard, roof, or foundation.”

The organization also noted that it obtained all required city permits before construction began and had even removed a dead, dying, or hazardous tree from Willis’ property as a goodwill gesture.

Homeowner Seeks Resolution and Justice for His Grandmother’s Legacy

Willis, whose late grandmother once owned the home, said his fight is as much about preserving family history as protecting his property.

“These memories, these awards, they’re all tied to her,” Willis said, referencing music honors he received for songwriting work with artists like T-Pain and DJ Unk. “Preserving her home means preserving everything she stood for.”

He estimates it will cost more than $7,000 to fix the damage and restore the retaining wall.

Despite Habitat’s denial, Willis says he hopes the nonprofit will take accountability and help repair what’s been lost. “Just because my home is old doesn’t mean it’s okay to make it worse,” he said.

Do you think nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity should be required to cover damages caused by nearby construction? Share your opinion and community stories at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.