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You don’t always need to install a dehumidifier in your encapsulated crawl space, but it might be a good idea in certain instances. If you notice obvious signs of condensation, mold, or musty smells permeating from your crawl space, a dehumidifier can help. It’s ideal for homes in humid areas.

In a worst case scenario, structural damage like rust on metal beams, rotting wood, and swelling on doors and windows can signal moisture problems that would benefit from a dehumidifier.

When doing any type of project involving mold, it's important to wear the right protective gear. You'll want an N-95 or KN-95 mask to keep yourself from inhaling mold spores, which can be irritating or trigger an allergic reaction in people with weakened immune systems. You'll also want to wear protective eyewear and gloves to limit your contact with mold.

Standard homeowners insurance policies may cover basement water damage or flooding, but only if it is caused by a sudden and accidental event that is a covered peril, such as a burst pipe or a failing appliance. Damage caused by natural flooding from extreme weather, groundwater seepage, or heavy rain is typically excluded and requires a separate flood insurance policy. Some insurers also offer an optional water backup endorsement for issues like sewer backups. Review your policy or speak with your agent to understand your specific coverage.

A leak under your foundation from a water supply line or sewage line is likely to lead to water pooling on certain areas of your property during rainfall, abnormally fast-growing or green grass in certain sections of your lawn, and differential settlement of your foundation, which can result in large foundation cracks, windows and doors failing to operate properly, a wavy or sloping roofline, or damages or irregularities in your interior walls, including cracks and bulging. If it’s a plumbing line embedded in your slab, you’ll also likely notice above-average water bills.