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Dearborn basement waterproofing FAQ
Updated October 19, 2026
Are you a contractor or a plumber?
Neither. We're a referral service. We pass your request to one independent contractor who works in Dearborn; they inspect, estimate and do the work under their own license.
Does the referral cost anything?
No. The contractor pays us for the introduction. You pay only the contractor, only if you hire them.
My basement flooded in June 2021. What actually prevents that?
A backwater valve on the sewer lateral plus a sump that pumps footing-drain water outside, with a battery backup. Wall waterproofing alone doesn't stop a sewer backup. Say "sewer backup" in your request.
Do east and west Dearborn have different problems?
Somewhat. East and south Dearborn have the oldest brick foundations on group-D Kibbie clay and were the areas the city says were hit hardest in 2021. West Dearborn's 1940s–60s homes on Livonia-Brems soils tend toward specific-wall seepage and window wells.
Is there city money for this?
The city has used federal disaster recovery funds for public green-infrastructure projects. Whether any resident program is open changes; check the city's Flood Preparedness page before you sign a contract.
How many contractors will call?
One.
How fast?
Usually within a business day; after a major storm it can be longer.
Is a permit needed?
Yes for sump pumps, backwater valves and sewer work: a Dearborn plumbing permit through BS&A Online. The contractor should pull it.
Can you help with Dearborn Heights or Detroit?
The contractors we work with serve neighboring cities too. Send the request and say where you are.
Can I get other bids?
Yes. There's no obligation to the contractor we send or to us.
Ask for a free estimate
Tell us what happened in the basement. One independent contractor who works in Dearborn calls you to arrange a free visit and a written estimate. The referral is free; you never pay us.