Originally Posted By: roconnor
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
It is estimated that 80% - 90% of below grade basements have, or have had, some degree of water penetration.
In addition to looking for active leaks, use your nose to check for a musty/damp odor, floor and wall stains, rot or water damage at the base of walls, and other clues like everything being stored up off the floor.
Make sure you also check the site features that contribute or cause leaks like improper proper roof drainage, gutters and leaders that are not adequate or not functional, rainwater discharging too close to the basement, and inadequate grading away from a foundation.
Repairing foundation leaks can be a big ticket item, so you don't want to miss that ... 
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Robert O'Connor, PE
Eagle Engineering ?
Eagle Eye Inspections ?
NACHI Education Committee
I am absolutely amazed sometimes by how much thought goes into doing things wrong