A waterproofing or drainage contractor
Deals with water getting into the basement: membranes, weeping tile, sump pits and drainage. Ask them to explain where they think the water comes from.
Water Leaking Through a Wall or Floor
This guide does not diagnose your foundation. It helps you decide who to call and what to ask.
Water in a basement can come from more than one place. A crack, the joint where the wall meets the floor, a failed drain, poor grading or a downspout that empties next to the house can all play a part.
That is why two contractors can look at the same wet wall and suggest different fixes. The goal of a first visit is to find where the water comes from before choosing a repair.
Get it looked at soon if
- Water comes in every time it rains or the snow melts.
- Water is coming through a crack that is getting wider.
- You see water and a wall that bows, leans or has moved.
- There is water near electrical panels, outlets or appliances. Stay safe and call an electrician first.
If you think there is an immediate safety risk, leave the area and contact your local emergency services.
Who can assess it
A foundation repair contractor
Can look at the problem and propose a repair. They sell the repair, so ask what else could explain what you see.
A structural engineer
Independent of any contractor. Can assess whether there is a structural problem and write a repair scope that contractors then price.
Services that may come up
Questions to ask every contractor
- Where do you think the water is coming in, and how did you decide that?
- Would fixing grading, downspouts or eavestroughs help before anything else?
- Is the work inside or outside? If outside, what will be dug up and how is it restored?
- Who applies for any permit and books inspections?
- What is included, and what would cost extra if you find more damage?
- What does the warranty cover, for how long, and does it transfer to a new owner?
What to record
- Take dated photos from the same spot, with a tape measure or coin for scale.
- Mark the ends of any crack with a pencil and the date, so you can see if it grows.
- Note when it happens: after rain, during snowmelt, or all the time.
- Keep every estimate, report and invoice in one folder.
Slow down if you hear
- Pressure to sign today or lose a price.
- A large deposit before any work or materials arrive.
- A scope that does not say what is included.
- Claims of a grant or rebate you cannot confirm yourself.