Where rain finds a way in

Northglenn sits on the Colorado plains, where thunderstorms can drop a lot of water in a short time and clay-rich soils drain slowly. Water that cannot soak in runs along the surface, collects against a foundation and looks for the lowest opening. In many 1960s ranches and split-levels that opening is a window well, a cracked slab edge, a floor drain, or the line where a basement wall meets the floor.

Because the water comes from outside, it is often cold, muddy and mixed with whatever it passed over. That affects how it is handled. Water that picked up soil, lawn chemicals or sewage-system backflow is treated more cautiously than a clean supply leak, which is why the source matters as much as the amount.

Work out what kind of water entered

These are rough sorting questions, not a diagnosis.

  • IfWater entered only through a window wellThenCheck the well drain and the grade around it. Wet carpet near that wall is a likely path.
  • IfWater appeared along the base of a wallThenSuspect groundwater pressure or a crack. Dry what is wet and ask a professional to look at drainage.
  • IfWater rose from a floor drainThenTreat as possible sewer backup and keep out of it; contaminated water needs different handling.
  • IfThe basement is damp but no puddle formedThenHumidity from wet soil or a poorly vented laundry can mimic a leak. Measure before assuming.

Steps after water has entered

  1. Stay safe first

    Keep away from electrical outlets, panels and appliances sitting in water. Shut power at the main only if you can reach it from a dry position.

  2. Move belongings up

    Lift boxes, rugs and furniture legs off wet floors so they stop absorbing water.

  3. Photograph before cleanup

    Take wide and close photos with dates. Capture the water line on walls and the items affected.

  4. Remove standing water

    Pumps or wet vacuums can lower the level, but do not pump out a flooded basement all at once when the ground outside is saturated; ask local guidance first.

  5. Begin drying promptly

    Open access to wall bottoms and get airflow and dehumidification going.

Prevention that sits outside the house

Area
Grading
What to look at
Soil near the foundation should slope away rather than toward the wall
Area
Downspouts
What to look at
Extensions that carry roof water several feet away from the house
Area
Window wells
What to look at
Clear drains and covers that keep debris out
Area
Sump pit if present
What to look at
Pump that runs, a discharge that leaves the property and a working float

Common questions

Is rain water in a basement covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by policy and cause, and flood and groundwater are often treated differently from sudden plumbing leaks. Read your policy and ask your insurer.

Who should I contact about drainage?

Start with a drainage or foundation specialist, and your city's public works office for questions about street and swale drainage.

General information for Northglenn, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.