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The easiest methods for waterproofing your basement include installing a gutter system to direct excess runoff away from your foundation and grading the soil away from your home to pull water away from the concrete. In some cases, these methods alone can be enough to eliminate water intrusion and moisture problems in your basement. If you have excessive rainfall in your area, though, you might need to employ more complicated solutions, like installing a French drain and a dehumidification system inside.

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.

It’s not safe to live in a house with water damage until a trained professional gives you the all-clear to return. Mold can grow within one to two days after water damage and weaken your home’s structural integrity. Always have your home inspected after water damage to ensure it’s safe to live in.

Finishing an unfinished basement adds the most value, with an average return of 70% or $22,400. A bathroom addition in the basement will provide an ROI of 75%, but the higher cost will leave you with a lower actual return of $9,000, on average. Finishing a basement and adding a kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom to rent the space will leave you with the highest possible ROI, as you could see well over 100% if you rent the space out long-term.