Waterproofing requires skill and experience and the right professional for the job. Waterproofing your home is absolutely essential for preventing your home from leaky pipes, floods, standing water and even termites, which are attracted to dampness. But keeping your foundation safe from water damage isn’t a task for do-it-yourself fans unless you’re keen on dealing with drainage systems, grading and rain gutters, to name a few. Whether you’re working with your insurance company or hiring a contractor on your own, you’ll find a qualified local waterproofing contractor can either repair or help keep your home safe from water damage.

What You Need to Know

• You don’t have to wait until you have experienced water damage to waterproof your home. Check with your insurance agent to see if you can get reimbursed for preemptive waterproofing.
• If you have any water damage, report it to your insurance agent immediately to confirm that waterproofing services are covered by your policy.
• Be prepared to pay extra fees and charges for emergency waterproofing services.
• Make a list of all damaged areas in your home to make it easier to communicate the extent of damage to contractors.

Step 1

Contact the local builder’s association or your insurance adjuster for a referral. Either can connect you with reputable waterproofing specialists in your area. Obtain the names and phone numbers of at least three to four waterproofing contractors to begin your search.

Step 2

Communicate the extent of damage or what you want done to your home in terms of waterproofing. Contact each contractor to share the details so they can offer their range of services. If your home has been damaged by water, include specific information about when the damage occurred, if you are experiencing any allergic reactions to mold, and how soon you need the contractor’s services.

Step 3

Confirm that the waterproofing contractor you choose is a member of a trade association. If the contractor is a member of the National Association of Waterproofing and Structural Repair Contractors or local builders’ associations, he or she will be up to date on the latest permit issues and techniques, and may offer you a higher level of professional service.

Step 4

Ask for a list of services and fees. Find out whether the waterproofing contractor works on an hourly basis or project basis and how she or he handles the insurance claims process.

Step 5

Verify licensing information. Ask for the waterproofing contractor’s general license number and contact your state’s licensing board to verify it.

Step 6

Set up a site inspection. Select a qualified waterproofing contractor to conduct a thorough assessment of your property and provide you with a list of all damaged areas and recommended repairs.

Step 7

Request a project estimate. Ask the contractor to provide you with a detailed list of all services and fees associated with labor, materials and transportation fees. At this stage, you can also ask for an estimated time of completion.

Step 8

Request a written contract that confirms all details from the project estimate. It should include information on any satisfaction guarantees, deposits or fees. Review and sign the contract.

Tips & Warnings

• Work directly with your insurance provider before signing a contract with a waterproofing specialist.
• Shop around for the best fees and rates if a contractor provides an estimate that is out of your budget range.
• Ask for a copy of the warranty on any new fixtures or products the contractor is installing.