Debra Clerf Coldwell Banker Kittitas Valley Realty 100 West Third Ellensburg, WA (509) 925-8700
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How to deal with water in the basement

November 29, 2011

Problems with water in the basement of a home are fairly common, since it can leak in from any direction. Age or poor work by builders or previous contractors can allow leakage to become a significant problem, and homes located by rivers may be at risk of being flooded by overflow. Water can flow over the surface, seep in underground or in some cases back up through municipal storm drains.

While homes with serious problems may be expensive to fix, minor flaws can have straightforward and relatively cheap solutions. Buyers who consider such homes may be able to get a better deal, but should know what they are getting in to and act promptly to fix the problem.

Diagnosing the problem

A professional is best equipped to determine how serious a wet basement problem is, but there are ways to estimate the severity of the flaw and its consequences. 

A minor basement leak could be no more than a minor inconvenience easily contained by a simple, well-placed bucket in the short-term, while more severe problems could threaten the home's foundation or even pose health hazards.

A home with a finished basement may have more to lose to moisture accumulation, but even in an unfinished basement water may lead to mold or damage floors and walls. That sort of structural problem can spread, compromising the condition of the rest of the home. Mold can also spread. Even if it is contained in the basement, however, mold spores can be unpleasant at best and cause illness at worst.

Water damage may attract pests such as termites and ants, as well, and tends to cause unpleasant odors. Like many problems, basement water can start small but worsen over time, so it is generally best to address it as soon as possible.

Addressing basement flooding

Sometimes flooding problems are caused by damage to the gutters, according to CNN Money, which results in water being dropped where it will then seep into the home. 

If that is the case, repairing the gutters may be sufficient to stem the flow.
Another possibility is that a basement window or window frame is flawed, creating openings that encourage rain to enter the home. Cracks and holes may even exist in the walls themselves. While sealing these openings is important, it may not completely stop moisture from getting in.

If water cannot be kept out of the basement entirely, it may need a better 
drainage system. Basements which already have such a system may need repairs or replacement of the dehumidifier or sump pump, if they are not operating as they should.
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