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Expert Q Ren Molnar Q&A Archive
Top > Structure > Footing

Question:

We are building a new home and it seems like we are on or near a water source (not near a river, but water in the ground) because when sump pump wasn't working after they poured the basement, we ended up with a few inches of water in our basement. Needless to say, we are a little scared. Since the pump is working, it seems to be no problem. I'm just wondering what type of things we need in our basement (backup generators? sensors? etc...) to help protects us from a flooded basement. We have the freedom of an unfinished basement at this point, but in a couple of weeks they will be framing down there as well.

Answer:

Before going any farther with the building I'd have a soil study done because if the water problem turns out to be drastic, you may end up with a problem for the life of the house. You might be able to get around this by building the house higher and then terracing it or in a really bad situation, you may have to move to another location on the lot.

In the interests of retaining credibility and in fairness to all, I cannot recommend prices, people nor companies for various projects.

Remember, even if you don’t do your own work around the house have to hire someone, you put yourself at a great advantage when you can intelligently discuss a project with the various trades people.

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Courtesy of Ren Molnar, Construction Consultant at HomeFocus.com. I can also be reached at (613) 748-3003 and Home Focus – The Radio Show is broadcast live 8 to 10 A.M. (Ottawa, Ont. time) on Saturdays on www.cfra.com.

Answered By: Ren Molnar

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