If you’re considering installing a sump pump in your basement or cellar, you might wonder if it will affect the value of your home. Sump pumps can be crucial in protecting your household from costly water damage and flooding, but some homeowners are worried that installing one will lower the value of their property. 

Our experts have put together this blog with everything you need to know about sump pumps, how they work, why they’re important, and whether they affect your home’s value and saleability.

 

What is a sump pump, and how does it work?

A sump pump is a submersible pump installed in a sump pit at the lowest point of your basement or cellar. Its primary purpose is to protect the basement from flooding during storms or periods of heavy rainfall. During bad weather, groundwater can rise through the cracks in your home’s foundation and seep through the walls, causing significant damage to your home.

If your basement or cellar has a pumping station installed, the floating component in the pump will rise when the groundwater rises. The motor is activated when the float reaches a pre-set level, and the excess water is pumped out. Water is pumped out and away from your home, preventing damage to your basement and your property’s foundations. 

You can also purchase a high water level alarm to alert you when the pump switches on and backup systems to protect your home in case of a power outage. 

 

What are sump pumps used for?

Sump pumps are mainly used to manage groundwater in a basement and prevent flooding. 

Flood prevention

If your home sits below the water table or is prone to flooding, a sump pump can help prevent costly water damage. This can save you thousands of pounds in the long run, and you get peace of mind knowing your home is protected. 

Mould prevention

Mould typically grows in moist conditions, and it can be extremely harmful to your health. A sump pump ensures your cellar stays dry, eliminating the moist conditions mould needs to grow. 

Fire prevention 

Sump pumps can also prevent fire damage, particularly electrical fires. During a flood, water can get into the wires, electrical circuits or outlets, causing the system to short-circuit and potentially start an electrical fire. 

 

Is a sump pump necessary in all homes?

Not all houses require a sump pump in their basement or cellar. If you live in an area that’s not prone to flooding and you’ve never had a problem with standing water in your basement, you’ll likely not need one. 

However, if your home sits below the water table, you live in an area prone to flooding, or your cellar is often damp or flooded, installing a sump pump is the best way to protect your home from damage. 

 

Does a sump pump lower the value of your home?

If you’re struggling with damp or standing water in your basement, having a sump pump installed is the recommended course of action, but what effect will it have on the value of your home?

Moisture levels in a basement can be a genuine concern for potential buyers, as can the risks and damage associated with flooding. Some buyers who don’t understand the function and importance of a pumping station might feel more anxious about standing water when they view a home with a sump pump installed. This might make them look more closely for signs of previous water damage. 

However, many buyers will feel put at ease by the presence of a sump pump as it shows that the basement is fully protected from flooding. It also assures them that steps have been taken to protect the property, and they will not have to incur the expense of installing a sump pump themselves. This can increase the market value of your home and serve as a selling point. 

As a general rule, there is no need to mention a sump pump on a property listing, but it should be mentioned during a viewing. This allows the estate agent to explain the sump pump’s importance to potential buyers and eliminate any anxiety they might have.  

 

Basement and cellar pumping stations

At Sumps and Pumps, we stock a comprehensive selection of basement and cellar sump pumps. All our basement and cellar pumping stations include a sump chamber and a single or dual submersible water pump. If your basement struggles with high volumes of standing water, we recommend opting for a twin pump system to keep your home fully protected. 

We offer both budget-friendly pumping stations, which need assembling, and professional, ready-to-go cellar sump pump stations. Many of our cellar pumping stations feature a squat chamber to simplify installation, even in areas with limited space.

Sumps and Pumps also offer high water level alarms, battery backups, pump control panels, and waterproofing products, so you can rely on our site for everything you need to fully waterproof your basement and reassure potential buyers your home is safe from water damage. 

Browse our full range of sump pumps, pumping stations and accessories in our online shop. Please contact our team if you need help selecting a suitable sump pump for your basement or cellar. We’ll be happy to offer any advice or guidance you might need.