Imagine spending nearly $17,000 to make your home safer, only to end up with mold, runoff damage, and zero peace of mind.
That’s exactly what happened to Sharon Webb, an Atlanta-area homeowner who wanted to transform her basement into a creative space for art and crafts. Instead, she got a partial solution, a persistent mildew smell, and a whole new set of problems.
Unfortunately, Sharon’s story is not unique. Many homeowners across Georgia and the U.S. are misled by contractors offering quick fixes that don’t fully address the issue. So how can you tell the difference between a real solution and a patch job dressed up with a big price tag?
Let’s dig into the details, and the takeaways that could save you thousands.
A Costly Partial Fix That Didn’t Solve the Problem
When Sharon first noticed moisture in her basement, she did what many homeowners would do: she called in the pros. The waterproofing company she hired charged her $16,900 for a “solution” that left mold, mildew, and humidity lingering in her home.
Sharon’s primary concern wasn’t just comfort, it was health. Both she and her husband have respiratory issues. But instead of relief, the result was an even mustier odor and mold growth that made her basement unusable.
When she complained, the company did return and built a new retaining wall. Unfortunately, this only led to additional water runoff into her backyard gate and killed more than a dozen of her landscaping bushes in the process.
An Independent Review Revealed the Truth
To get an objective view of the work, Sharon turned to an independent evaluation by AquaGuard Foundation Solutions, a vetted expert in the field. Their assessment? Some of the work done was not only unnecessary, it also failed to address the root cause of the issue.
This echoes what many industry experts stress: there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to basement moisture. The right fix depends on the structure, drainage patterns, and existing damage. And in Sharon’s case, no one took the time to properly diagnose the problem before proposing a fix.
Takeaways for Homeowners: How to Protect Yourself
If you’re facing a similar issue – whether it’s basement moisture, cracks in the foundation, or mold – you need more than a quick quote. You need a process. Here’s what to do:
1. Always get multiple estimates.
Different companies may suggest different solutions, and the pricing can vary wildly. If one contractor is pushing a high-dollar fix fast, it’s time to slow down and ask more questions.
2. Read the warranty. Carefully.
Sharon was shocked to find out that the $16,900 job she paid for didn’t even come with a guarantee to remove moisture. Don’t assume coverage—get it in writing.
3. Ask for a detailed scope of work.
Make sure the company explains how their plan solves the specific problem. If they can’t break it down clearly, that’s a red flag.
4. Consider third-party evaluations.
Sometimes, it pays to bring in a neutral expert, especially when you're dealing with potential health hazards or major home investments.
The Ending and the Silver Lining
After our team got involved, the original waterproofing company made an effort to make amends. They returned to Sharon’s home with new plants and agreed to install them. But the real turning point came with a surprise delivery – a dehumidifier, which will finally help tackle the persistent moisture problem that sparked this saga in the first place.
It’s not the resolution Sharon hoped for, but it’s a step in the right direction.
And her story serves as a reminder: if a home repair sounds too simple to be true… it might be.
Final Thought:
Your home is your haven. Don’t let hasty decisions, vague warranties, or overpriced “solutions” put your investment – and your health – at risk. For peace of mind, work with companies that have been investigated, vetted, and certified by trusted consumer advocates.
