Get matched with top basement waterproofing pros in Beechwood, MS

It depends on what caused your basement flooding, the extent of the problem, and the risk of the flood continuing. If your flood is coming from a septic system or sewer line, breathing in the sewer gasses can be dangerous, so you should vacate. If the flood occurs from an ongoing natural disaster, relocating to a safe area might be wise. If you just have a plumbing leak or rainwater coming in, you can likely stay in the house if you don’t have electrical lines down there, but make sure you call in professionals to fix the issue immediately.

Anything having to do with the structure of your home, such as raising the ceiling, is usually the most expensive part of finishing a basement. Another project component that could be a surprisingly high expense is adding an exterior entrance. 

The cost of a walkout basement can be anywhere from $5,000 to $35,000.

If you notice standing water under the deck after rainstorms, you may need a drainage system to efficiently move this water. You do not want standing water to rest against your foundation or against support posts for the deck, as this could cause significant structural problems over time. Make sure the area has proper grading, too.

The best type of basement ventilation system depends on your budget, the moisture in your basement’s air, and the types of windows you have down there. You should consider all of these factors when choosing a ventilation system. However, the most effective method for basement ventilation is an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) or a whole-house ventilation system, which preheats or precools incoming air from the outside while also managing water vapor.