What evidence might indicate past or current attempts to correct water infiltration?

Waterproofing materials on crawl space walls serve as a strong indicator of past or current efforts to mitigate water infiltration issues. These materials, which may include coatings, membranes, or barriers applied to protect areas from moisture, are often employed when there are known or anticipated problems with water entering a structure. The presence of such protective measures suggests that the property owner or builder recognized the need to address potential water intrusion risks, signaling proactive management of moisture control.

While newly painted walls might temporarily improve aesthetics, they do not necessarily indicate an ongoing effort to combat infiltration. Similarly, signs of mold removal suggest that a moisture problem has occurred, but do not provide evidence of lasting preventative measures. Increased ventilation systems could be beneficial for managing humidity levels but do not directly signify that water infiltration has been actively addressed. Thus, waterproofing materials specifically highlight targeted actions taken to protect against infiltration, aligning with the question's focus.