**Have him lower the finished soil level to at least 6 inches below the bottom of the siding.** Aim for **8–12 inches if practical**; that is the preferred clearance in the Department of Energy’s guidance. Measure from the final surface, including any mulch. [DOE foundation guidance](https://basc.pnnl.gov/resource-guides/termite-resistant-foundations-and-walls)

Virginia Residential Code §R317.1 uses **6 inches above soil** and **2 inches above paved surfaces** as thresholds for decay protection of wood siding, sheathing, and framing. Those provisions concern wood components behind your aluminum siding too. The siding manufacturer’s instructions and the wall construction determine the precise required clearance for your assembly. [Virginia Residential Code §R317.1](https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/VARC2021P2/chapter-3-building-planning)

**The excavation also needs to drain.** A narrow trench beside the foundation can collect water. Virginia requires soil to fall at least **6 inches over the first 10 feet away from the house**, or a drain/swale where space prevents that slope. Its current minimum slope for impervious paving is **1% away from the building**. [Virginia drainage requirements](https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincodeexpand/title13/agency5/chapter63/)

For your situation, I’d specify the 6-inch minimum clearance even beside the brick pad, with additional clearance where feasible given the snow. Keep shoveled snow away from the wall. Since you already have substantial water damage, have the lower wall opened and inspected: lowering the soil addresses the exposure, but damaged sheathing, framing, and flashing still need repair.