Water Seepage

Tips from Real-Estate-Agents.com

by Kathy Maynard, reprinted courtesy of ServiceMagic.com

Q: I recently bought a lower level condo and now have had to tear up the floor because there is water seeping up from the ground. I have recently learned this happened three times within the year before I bought the condo.

Any idea as to the source of this water and if it is possible to fix it permanently?

A: First, I recommend you contact your realtor and look into the disclosure laws in your state. It may be that whoever sold you the condo will be responsible for paying for repairs if they hid this problem from you when you were buying the condo.

As far as researching possible ways to fix the problem, I suggest visiting our site and reading some of the articles related to this problem, including "So You Have a Basement That Gets Damp," and "Wet Basements." Even though you are on a ground floor and not a basement, they explain several causes and solutions for damp floors.

It is important to assess the source of the water thoroughly. Is the water coming from under the structure? Can you see water pooling under the condo? If so, how much? Can you determine where the runoff originates and how it gets under the condo?

You may be able to divert and/or collect it before it gets under the condo. Keeping the water out in the first place is a far better solution than removing it (such as with a sump pump-though you may need to install one of those too.) A competent landscape contractor should be able to provide you with an accurate evaluation.

To locate some landscapers or other experts to evaluate your problem and recommend solutions, please visit ServiceMagic.com, submit a service request for the appropriate professionals and let us match you with the ideal service professional in your area.

Good luck!

Kathy Maynard

-- Tips courtesy of Service Magic