From the Forum – recs to fix basement flooding during rain and leaky porch roof?

Photo by PoPville flickr user djdc in petworth

recs to fix basement flooding during rain and leaky porch roof?:

“Today’s heavy rains brought to light two unrelated issues in my Mt. Pleasant rowhouse. I’d love suggestions for people/companies to contact to fix either or both problems!

1. The basement is underground and has a door that opens to an outdoor stairwell that leads you to ground level. At the bottom of the outdoor stairwell is a drain. On days with heavy rain, the drain can’t keep up with the amount of water pooling at the bottom of the stairwell and it flows under the basement door and into the basement.

We’ve had the drain snaked and have sand bags against the door, but water still gets through during a prolonged heavy rain.

I’m not sure whether I need (1) a plumber to do something to the drain, or (2) a contractor to replace or otherwise better seal the bottom of the door, or (3) both, or (4) some other solution entirely. Thoughts/suggestions very appreciated!

2. I noticed today that the roof of our front porch is leaking in several places. I don’t see any obvious holes in the tar on the top of the roof, but they must be there! Suggestions for someone who can repair the porch roof, which has wood slats on the underside that need to be preserved?

Thank you!”

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