Basement Waterproofing Cost in Boston [2025 Data]

Boston’s older homes and high water table make basements especially prone to leaks and moisture issues. Basement waterproofing in Boston costs around $4,116 on average, with most projects falling between $2,109 and $6,243, depending on the size of the basement, the type of system installed, and whether the work is done inside or outside. Factoring in these and other considerations can help you plan a realistic budget for this project.

Basement Waterproofing Cost Factors 

The price of basement waterproofing in Boston, MA depends on multiple factors, ranging from the square footage of your basement to whether the solution involves interior fixes or exterior excavation. The type of system installed also plays a major role. Factoring in these details can help you accurately estimate your overall costs.

Basement Size

The cost to waterproof a basement falls between $3 and $10 per square foot on average, although where in this range your pricing falls depends largely on the type of waterproofing method you choose. In any case, large spaces require more time, labor, and material to waterproof than small spaces. Therefore, the larger your basement, the more you can expect to pay for waterproofing for any given method.

Below is a breakdown of how much you might spend for a range of basement sizes.

Interior vs. Exterior Waterproofing

Depending on where your basement water issues are stemming from and what solutions your expert recommends, you may need either interior or exterior waterproofing services. Some homes require both. Interior basement waterproofing is often more affordable because it doesn’t involve excavation and backfilling. Something like installing damp-proofing around the exterior of your foundation would require a lot of digging, which drastically increases labor costs.

You’ll spend an average of $3,000 on interior waterproofing services, while extensive exterior services will cost an average of $7,000.

Waterproofing Method

As mentioned above, professionals can waterproof your basement from the exterior or the interior. Exterior methods are more effective because they’re preventative, but they’re also more expensive because they tend to require excavation, which is time-consuming. The table below includes a list of basement waterproofing methods along with cost ranges for each.

Basement Waterproofing Pro Costs

Basement waterproofing in Boston involves costs that extend beyond the installation itself. Hiring a pro means you’ll also need to factor in fees for things like permits, licensing, and local taxes.

Labor

Boston labor costs tend to run higher than many other parts of the country due to a higher cost of living, with waterproofing contractors often charging between $100 and $175 per hour. Rates can increase further on jobs that require heavy excavation in tight city lots or inside historic basements with limited access.

Permits

In Boston, waterproofing projects that alter foundations, add drainage systems, or involve excavation usually require permits through the Inspectional Services Department. Fees are calculated based on project valuation and often start around a few hundred dollars, but larger or more complex work can push them higher.

Licensing and Insurance

Massachusetts requires contractors performing waterproofing or structural foundation work to hold a Construction Supervisor License or a Home Improvement Contractor registration, depending on the scope. Liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage are also mandatory, and the cost of maintaining these credentials is usually reflected in contractor pricing.

Taxes

Massachusetts applies a 6.25% sales tax to building materials, but labor for waterproofing services is not taxed. Make sure to confirm that materials are billed separately in your estimate to avoid paying unnecessary taxes on labor. 

Does Basement Waterproofing Increase Home Value?

Basement waterproofing in Boston doesn’t always yield a measurable return, but it’s an important investment when it comes to protecting your home’s value. By preventing water damage, mold, and structural problems, which are issues often seen in the city’s older homes, it makes the basement safer, more functional, and more appealing to potential buyers.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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