French drains & yard drainage

Many wet basements start outside: gutters, downspouts and ground sloping toward the house are checked first.

Many wet basements start outside: gutters, downspouts and ground sloping toward the house are checked first.

Do this first

• Keep electrics and cords away from standing water.
• Move belongings off the floor and away from damp walls.
• Check that the sump pump runs and its discharge is clear, if it is safe.
• Photograph where water comes in and note whether it follows rain or snowmelt.