Omaha has been dealing with an unusually rainy September, and all that water can create problems for homeowners — especially when it comes to basements, sump pumps, and foundations.
In a recent report from KETV NewsWatch 7, Jerry’s Waterproofing shared that the company has seen a 25–30% increase in calls over the past several weeks. Homeowners have been dealing with issues including sump pump failures and water entering their basements.
Why Heavy Rain Can Cause Basement Problems
When the ground becomes saturated, there is more water surrounding your home’s foundation. That added moisture can put pressure on foundation walls and create opportunities for water to find its way into your basement.
Heavy rain can also put your sump pump to the test. A properly functioning sump pump helps remove water collected around your foundation and redirect it away from your home.
A Few Ways to Help Protect Your Home
There are several things homeowners can check to help keep rainwater away from the foundation:
- Check your gutters and downspouts. Make sure they’re clear of debris and directing water well away from your foundation.
- Make sure the ground slopes away from your home. Proper grading can help prevent water from collecting around foundation walls.
- Test your sump pump. Make sure it’s operating properly before the next heavy rainfall.
- Consider a battery backup and alarm. A backup system can provide added protection if the power goes out or your primary sump pump stops working.
- Don’t ignore water in your basement. Even a small amount of seepage can be a sign of a larger drainage or waterproofing issue.
As Mark Dorner of Jerry’s Waterproofing told KETV, homeowners should make sure their sump pump has a good battery backup or an alarm to alert them if the pump isn’t working.
If you’ve noticed water in your basement, a failing sump pump, or signs of moisture around your foundation, it’s worth addressing the problem before the next major rain event. Jerry’s Waterproofing can help identify the source of the water and recommend solutions to help keep your basement dry.
News source: This post was inspired by KETV NewsWatch 7’s September 23, 2026 report, “Too much rain causing foundation/basement problems in Omaha.”