Syracuse averages about 127.8 inches of snow a year and has averaged about 134 days a year below freezing. Snowmelt soaks slow draining glacial till and lake clay soils, then the soil freezes and pushes on basement walls. About 43 percent of the city's homes were built in 1939 or earlier, many on stone or early block walls.
What we do
Syracuse Foundation is a lead referral service. We are not a foundation contractor. When you call (315) 623-3956 or send the form, we connect you with one independent local foundation and waterproofing contractor who works in your part of Syracuse.
That contractor comes to your home, does a free inspection, and gives you a written estimate. If you choose to hire them, they do the work, and your agreement is directly with them.
Why we started this site
A wet basement or a cracked wall is stressful. You search online and find a long list of names with no prices and no plain answers. We built this site to give Syracuse homeowners straight information first: why basements here leak and crack, what the fixes are, and what they typically cost. Then one call gets a local crew out to look.
What it costs you
Nothing. There is no fee to use Syracuse Foundation, and the inspection is free. Contractors pay us for referrals. You never pay us, and you decide whether to hire anyone.
What to ask for from any contractor
Whoever you hire for foundation or waterproofing work, it is smart to ask for:
A written estimate that names the cause, not just the repair
A drawing that shows where each anchor, strap, pier or drain goes
Proof of insurance
The warranty in writing, including whether it transfers when you sell
Who pulls the permit from the City of Syracuse or your town, if the job needs one
A written contract that explains your right to cancel within three business days, as New York law requires