Wet Basements in Indianapolis
Wet basements are a common problem for Indianapolis homeowners, especially those living in areas with high levels of precipitation or where the water table is high. The issue can arise for a variety of reasons, from poor drainage to cracks in the foundation walls. Regardless of the cause, a wet basement often leads to a host of problems, including mold growth, structural damage, and decreased property value.

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Common Questions
Do you fix the damage after mold removal?
Yes, we restore affected areas and materials to pre-mold conditions.
Is it safe to stay in my home during cleanup?
It depends on the severity — we’ll help you decide.
Do you test for mold?
Yes, we offer mold testing services before and after remediation.
How do I know if I have mold?
Musty smells, visible spots, or health symptoms like allergies.
How does the insurance process work?
We’ll work with your carrier to document, estimate, and restore your home to pre-loss or better condition.
Can you rebuild the damaged structure?
Yes, we provide full property restoration services.
Can you remove smoke and odor?
Yes, we can. We use a variety of proven methods — including ozone treatments, thermal fogging, and professional cleaning — to eliminate smoke and odor. These treatments are backed by warranties once the rebuild is completed.
Do you help with personal property and clothing?
Yes, we offer emergency clothing, temporary living, content cleaning, and storage.
What’s the first step after a fire?
Contact emergency services, then call us for board-up and mitigation.
Do you fix more than just the roof?
Yes, we’re a full-service contractor for all repairs.
Can storm damage affect my structure?
Yes — roof, walls, and even foundations can be compromised.
How fast can you respond?
We offer emergency tarp and board-up services within hours.
Do you handle insurance claims?
Yes, we work directly with your carrier and adjuster to help you through the process.
What should I do right after storm damage?
Ensure safety, document the damage, and call us for emergency services.
Is radon mitigation expensive?
It’s cost-effective compared to the health risks it prevents.
What if I already have a vapor barrier?
It helps, but a radon mitigation system may still be needed.
Is radon common in Indiana?
Yes, especially in basements and crawl spaces, however slab-on-grade homes should also be tested.
How do you test for radon?
We use professional-grade detectors to test levels over 48+ hours.
What is radon and why is it dangerous?
It’s a radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer over long exposure.
Can I finish my basement after waterproofing?
Absolutely, it’s often the first step before remodeling.
Will waterproofing increase my home’s value?
Yes — a dry basement is a strong selling point.
Can waterproofing prevent mold growth?
Yes, by eliminating moisture sources, we can reduce mold risk.
What’s the best waterproofing system?
A combination of footing French drains, sump pumps, vapor barriers, and sealing.
What are signs my basement needs waterproofing?
Water stains, musty odors, wall efflorescence, and visible leaks.
Does foundation repair increase home value?
Absolutely — it protects your investment and often increases value. Many of our foundation repairs come with Lifetime Warranties.
Can uneven floors be fixed?
Yes, we can stabilize the foundation and level flooring.
What methods do you use for repair?
We use footing piers, wall anchors, carbon fiber straps, and other proven methods.
How serious are small wall cracks?
Even small cracks can indicate a bigger structural issue.
What causes bowing walls or foundation cracks?
Soil pressure, water damage, or settling over time.
Can you also waterproof crawl spaces?
Yes, we offer full crawlspace waterproofing solutions.
Do I need a dehumidifier in my crawl space?
In many cases, yes — it helps control humidity and prevent mold.
Is mold in a crawl space dangerous?
Yes, it can affect indoor air quality and should be removed professionally.
What is crawl space encapsulation?
It's sealing the space with multiple vapor barriers to prevent moisture intrusion.
Why is my floor sagging above the crawl space?
It could be due to wood rot, moisture damage, or insufficient support.
Can you lift commercial concrete?
Yes, we specialize in both residential and commercial concrete lifting.
Will it match the rest of my concrete?
We lift your existing slab; there’s no new pour, so color and texture remain the same.
Is concrete lifting permanent?
We warranty our concrete lifting projects for 10-years!
How long does concrete lifting take?
Most jobs are completed in just a few hours.
What causes concrete to sink?
Soil erosion, water intrusion, and poor compaction are common causes.
How can I refer a friend or family member to Michaelis Corporation?
You can refer someone through our Referral Rewards Program. If they sign a contract for one of our services, once the project is complete, you will receive a $100 gift card.
Are your services guaranteed?
Our warranty coverage is determined by the project scope, the service provided, and the trades involved. Depending on the nature of the work, we offer warranties that may include lifetime warranties on specific services, labor and material warranties covering workmanship and materials, and service-specific warranties based on project details.
Do you offer financing options?
Yes, we offer financing options to make our services more accessible.
How can I contact Michaelis Corporation?
You can contact us by filling out the form on our website's contact page.
Can you assist with insurance claims?
Yes, we have insurance claim specialists to help guide you through the insurance process.
Do you offer free inspections?
Yes, we offer free inspections to assess the condition of your property and recommend appropriate solutions.
Is Michaelis Corporation a family-owned business?
Yes, we are a locally owned and operated family business with over 39 years of experience.
Do you offer emergency services?
Yes, we provide 24/7/365 emergency services to address urgent situations promptly.
What services does Michaelis Corporation offer?
Michaelis Corporation specializes in a variety of services, including:
- Water Damage Restoration
- Storm Damage Repair
- Fire Damage Restoration
- Foundation Repair
- Mold Remediation
- Home Remodeling
- Crawlspace Waterproofing
Wet Basements Indianapolis
Wet basements are a common problem for Indianapolis homeowners, especially those living in areas with high levels of precipitation or where the water table is high. The issue can arise for a variety of reasons, from poor drainage to cracks in the foundation walls. Regardless of the cause, a wet basement often leads to a host of problems, including mold growth, structural damage, and decreased property value.
It’s important to address a wet basement as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential health hazards. Homeowners may be tempted to try and fix the issue themselves, but it’s best to seek the help of a professional.
Thankfully, there’s an Indianapolis company that’s been helping local homeowners with wet basements since 1982: Michaelis Corp. At Michaelis, we specialize in helping home and business owners recover from natural disasters, fires, and other serious property damage, including wet basements.

Causes of Wet Basements in Indianapolis
There are various causes of wet basements in the Indianapolis area, including:
1. Poor Drainage
Poor drainage is one of the most common causes of wet basements in Indianapolis. When the soil around the foundation is not properly graded, water can accumulate and pool around the foundation walls. This can lead to water seeping through basement walls and into the basement. Poor drainage can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
2. Cracks in the Foundation
Cracks in the foundation walls or floor also cause problems because they allow water to easily seep into the basement. Cracks may be caused by factors such as:
3. Hydrostatic Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure is the pressure exerted by water against the foundation walls. When the soil around the foundation becomes saturated with water, hydrostatic pressure builds up and forces water through cracks in the foundation walls and floor. This typically happens because of:
It’s important to understand the cause of your wet basement problems in order to effectively address the issue. A professional inspection can help identify the cause and provide recommendations for repairs or preventative measures.
Effects of Wet Basements
You may think that having a damp basement is a minor issue, but the effects of water in your basement can be severe. They include:


Why Seek Professional Solutions for Wet Basements
When dealing with a wet basement, it can be tempting to try to fix the problem yourself. However, seeking a professional solution is by far the best choice for several reasons.
In essence, seeking professional help offers a customized, long-lasting solution to your wet basement troubles.
Damage Doesn’t Wait, Neither Should You – Contact Us Today
We Fix Wet Basements in Indianapolis
If you’re experiencing issues with a wet basement in Indianapolis, it’s vital to seek professional help as soon as possible. That’s where we come in – Michaelis Corp has been a trusted provider of basement waterproofing services in Indianapolis for more than 40 years.
