Wet crawl space

[Stephanie G.]

The house that we are considering buying has a wet crawl space.  It was built in the 1950’s.  Ranch.  No structural damage from the wet crawl space.   Is this a wise investment?  Would it be hard to re-sell?

There were 2 sump pumps in the crawl space but one was not functioning.  It has been fixed.  

Thanks for any advice. 

[Ray Hage]

Hi, I have a triplex in Fort Lauderdale with a wet crawl space. I have owned it for 5 years. About 2-3 years ago the sump pump died and if I remember correctly it cost less than $1000 to replace it. The property cash flows great and I don't for sure if other investors would be worried about it but I can tell you, I am VERY happy I have this property.

[Patricia Steiner]

I recommend having it inspected during the inspection period to determine the cause and how to correct it.  I wouldn't let it stop me from proceeding but I would also be in it to remedy the problem once and for all.  "Wet" leads to a lot of issues other than mold and structural which most people think of first. "Because of the potential for moisture build-up and higher humidity in crawl spaces, you're most likely to find roaches, spiders, and termites in your home's crawl space. In addition to these bugs, excess moisture can also attract thirsty rodents like mice and rats."  (Source: bredapest.com)

Also consider what is in the crawlspace - like ductwork (which can be damaged and rodents love to eat through it), electrical wiring/junctions/electrical panels for AC,etc).  

It's worth buying if it's worth fixing once and for all.

[Stephanie G.]

@Ray Hage.  Thanks Ray!  I appreciate your feedback!  So hesitate but this helped!

[Stephanie G.]

@Patricia Steiner.  Thanks Patricia.  I totally agree with fixing the problem.  Looks like it’s just been a band-aid fix for the previous homeowners.  Just makes me hesitant in purchasing.  I’ve never owned a property with this kind of problem.  

[Patricia Steiner]

@Stephanie G.

So get it...my personal home had that problem when I purchased it.  The previous owner solved the problem by lining the crawl space with cookie sheets...how novel!  In not solving the issue, it created a ton more in a 1925 home - even though it was/is block and stucco.  The fix was inexpensive - the cookie sheets probably cost more.  I wouldn't buy anything without knowing how to fix and the cost to do so.  Trust your gut...your instincts are solid.

[Stephanie G.]

@Patricia Steiner. Cookie sheets…. now that’s not one I’ve heard of.  How inventive?! 
Thanks for the input, and you’re right…   

[Eliott Elias]

Why is the crawlspace wet and how long has it been wet? Settling will become an issue. 

[Theresa Harris]

Find out what it would cost to remedy above adding a new sump pump.  Where is the water coming from?  It may be an easy fix-addressing the slope around the house, adding downspout extensions, etc.