PREVENTING WATER IN THE BASEMENT
A Check List for Connecticut Homeowners

Meriden CT - June 11, 2003 - With Connecticut experiencing one of the soggiest springs on record, many homeowners are finding damp, wet and sometimes flooded basements and crawl spaces. "Heavy rains, clogged sewers, and even poorly designed landscaping can result in water problems for homeowners," said Ray Palermo, Director of Public Relations for Connecticut Life & Casualty Insurance. The insurer is offering homeowners a free brochure - "Preventing Water in the Basement" - to help address this chronic problem of spring. The company noted a few items to look for from their check list:

  • Cracks in the foundation walls that might allow rainwater to seep into the basement, which often lead to bigger cracks as the ground freezes and thaws.
  • Leaking pipes that may dampen basement floors or walls. A drip of just one-drop of water per second adds up to 2,700 gallons over the course of a year.
  • Land should be sloped away from the house. If necessary, re-grade to direct surface water away.
  • Planting shrubs and keeping your grass cut short will help absorb more groundwater. But trees and larger bushes should be planted away from the house, so roots do not create cracks in the foundation.
  • Gutters that are clogged with leaves or debris should be cleaned to ensure water doesn't overflow near the house. Downspouts that end within six feet of the house should be extended further away from the foundation.

    Connecticut Life & Casualty (CL&C) is a direct-to-the-customer insurance company headquartered in Meriden. The Company is offering a free brochure, "Preventing Water in the Basement," to Connecticut homeowners who call 1-800-252-6252.

    Contact: Ray Palermo
    Public Relations Tel: 203-634-7251
    E-mail: rpalermo@response.com

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