A levee around a house is a man-made physical barrier, typically an earthen embankment, constructed to reduce the risk of flooding by blocking floodwaters from entering the area where the house is located. It is designed to contain, control, or divert water flow temporarily during flood events to protect the structure from water damage

. Key points about a levee around a house:

• Purpose: To reduce flood risk by preventing or controlling floodwaters from reaching the house

• Construction: Usually made from compacted soil (earthen levee), sometimes combined with materials like rock or concrete to prevent erosion. The soil used is often impervious (clay) to limit water seepage

• Design: Built to a height and width sufficient to withstand expected flood levels, often with extra height called "freeboard" for safety. The levee must tie into existing high ground at its ends to prevent water from flowing around it

• Maintenance: Vegetation like trees or shrubs should be avoided on levees because roots can create seepage paths. Animals burrowing can also weaken the levee

• Limitations: Levees reduce but do not eliminate flood risk. Water can still flow over, seep through, or under a levee if floodwaters exceed its design capacity, potentially causing levee failure and flooding

In essence, a levee around a house acts as a protective embankment to keep floodwaters at bay, helping to safeguard the property during temporary flooding events