Most basement water problems come from outside: gutters, downspouts, grading and groundwater pushing against the foundation. The guides below help you find where the water or smell comes from, test your sump pump, and decide when to call a plumber or waterproofing contractor.
Common basement and sump pump problems
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Basement Floor Drain Backing Up: Main Sewer Clog or Storm Overload?
Water or sewage coming up through the basement floor drain usually means the main sewer line is blocked or the city sewer is overloaded. What…
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Flooded Basement: What to Do First and How to Clean Up Safely
If your basement is flooded, safety comes first: electricity, contaminated water and mold. The steps to take in the first 48 hours, what to throw…
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Musty Smell in the Basement: Humidity, Hidden Leaks or Mold
A musty basement smell means too much moisture somewhere: humid air, damp carpet, a slow leak or mold. How to find the source and get…
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Sump Pump Not Working: Power, Float Switch, Clogs and Check Valve
When a sump pump will not turn on or will not pump water, the usual causes are power, a stuck float switch, a clogged intake…
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Sump Pump Running Constantly (Even Without Rain): Causes and Fixes
A sump pump that runs all the time may be keeping up with high groundwater, or it may have a stuck float switch, a clogged…
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Water in the Basement After Heavy Rain: Where It Comes From and How to Stop It
Most basement water after rain starts outside: overflowing gutters, short downspouts, soil that slopes toward the house, window wells and cracks. Fix the outside first.
Before you start
Keep extension cords and electrical devices away from standing water. If water is near outlets, the panel or appliances, turn off power to the area at the breaker only if you can reach it from a dry spot; otherwise call an electrician or your utility.