Basement flooding is one of the most stressful and costly problems a homeowner can face. From damaged floors and furniture to the risk of mold and structural issues, even a few inches of water can lead to major headaches. And here in Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati, where heavy rain and Ohio River flooding are all too common, basement moisture is a problem we know all too well.

At A+ Services, we help homeowners prevent and recover from water damage every day. Whether you’re preparing for storm season or dealing with repeated leaks, these five proven tips can help keep your basement dry—no matter what the forecast brings.

1. Keep Gutters and Downspouts Flowing Freely

When your gutters are clogged with leaves, twigs, or roof debris, rainwater has nowhere to go—except over the edge and down toward your foundation. Over time, that water can seep into cracks and find its way into your basement.

How to protect your home:

Clean gutters at least twice a year, especially in the fall.
Make sure downspouts direct water at least 5 feet away from your home.
Check for sagging or disconnected gutter sections that can cause overflow.

When your gutter system works properly, it becomes your basement’s first line of defense.

2. Install (and Maintain) a Reliable Sump Pump

A sump pump is one of the most important tools for preventing basement flooding—especially during long periods of rain or in homes with a history of water issues. It works by collecting groundwater in a pit and pumping it safely away from your home’s foundation.

Our expert recommendations:

Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit—it should turn on automatically.
Keep the pit clean and free of debris.
Install a battery backup to keep it running during power outages (a common issue during storms).

If you don’t have a sump pump, or if yours is outdated or unreliable, contact A+ Services. We offer 24/7 emergency support when you need it most. Our licensed technicians help homeowners across Covington, Florence, Independence, and Greater Cincinnati choose the right pump for their basement size and drainage needs.

A working sump pump can mean the difference between a dry home and a costly flood cleanup—don’t wait until it’s too late to make sure yours is up to the task.

3. Regrade Your Yard to Keep Water Away from the Foundation

If your yard slopes toward your home, rainwater naturally flows right to your foundation—exactly where you don’t want it. This can create persistent puddles, soggy landscaping, and eventually, leaks or seepage into your basement.

Simple ways to fix poor grading:

Add soil around your home’s perimeter to create a gentle slope (about 6 inches over 10 feet).
Avoid placing mulch or landscape beds too high against the foundation.
Keep shrubs and plants trimmed back to allow airflow and prevent trapped moisture.

If water regularly pools near your home during heavy rain, professional grading or yard drainage improvements may be needed. A+ Services can help inspect and recommend long-term solutions.

4. Seal Foundation Cracks and Basement Walls

Even small hairline cracks in your basement floor or foundation walls can let water seep in—especially during a hard rain when the ground is saturated. Left untreated, these cracks can expand, allowing more water in and even compromising structural stability.

Protect your home by:

Using a professional-grade waterproof sealant on visible cracks.
Monitoring for new cracks each year, particularly after winter freeze-thaw cycles.
Scheduling a professional foundation inspection for serious issues like bowing walls or wide separation.

At A+ Services, we offer water intrusion diagnostics and crack repair as part of our comprehensive restoration and flood prevention services.

5. Install a French Drain or Interior Drain Tile System

For homes with persistent water problems or high groundwater levels, a French drain or drain tile system can provide long-term relief. These systems collect and redirect water away from your foundation before it can enter your basement.

Here’s how they work:

Perforated pipes are installed underground along your foundation.
These pipes collect excess groundwater and channel it into your sump pump or drainage field.
Gravel or rock surrounds the pipe to help filter and disperse water.

Installing one of these systems often involves digging around the home’s perimeter or under the basement slab—a job best left to experienced professionals like A+ Services. We’ll walk you through your options, explain what’s involved, and provide honest, upfront pricing before any work begins.

Need Help Preventing or Cleaning Up Basement Flooding?

Living in Northern Kentucky or Greater Cincinnati, you know that storms aren’t just inconvenient—they can quickly lead to water damage if your home isn’t protected. Whether you’re seeing signs of water intrusion or simply want peace of mind before the next big rain, A+ Services is here to help.

With A+ Services, You Get: