Basement Window Well Leaking? Causes, Fixes & Cost

Basement window leaks usually happen when the window well fills with water because its drain is clogged or missing, or rain pours straight in. Clearing a drain costs about $50–$100, resealing $100–$250 and drainage repairs $200–$600; a clear dome cover ($30–$150) stops rain from collecting.

Fix this weekDIY: Easy1–2 hoursPro: $150–$600

Last reviewed September 2026

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Check 1 of 12Testing: Window well

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Is the water coming in at a basement window?

Look for water stains or drips below a basement window, and a well full of water, leaves or silt outside.

Signs it's this problem

Water or stains below a basement window after rain
Standing water, leaves or silt in the window well
Gaps or cracked caulk around the window frame
The well liner pulling away from the foundation wall

Why it happens

A window well is a pit that holds back soil below grade. If leaves and dirt block its drain, or water can't soak away, the well fills like a bathtub and water forces its way past the window seals.

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How to fix it, step by step

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1.Scoop out leaves, trash and silt from the window well.
2.Find the drain at the bottom (often under the gravel) and flush it with a hose to see if water drains away.
3.If there's no drain or it's clogged, add 4–6 inches of clean gravel so water can soak away, or have a drain installed.
4.Re-caulk gaps around the window frame and between the well liner and the wall.
5.Fit a clear dome cover so rain and debris stay out while light still gets in.

Safety: Egress windows must still open from inside for emergency escape; choose a cover that can be pushed open.

Basement Window Well Leaking? Causes, Fixes & Cost cost

US national ranges for professional work, including labor and materials
Job	Typical cost
Clear a window well drain	$50–$100
Reseal window and well	$100–$250
Window well drainage repair	$200–$600
Polycarbonate dome cover (DIY)	$30–$150

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Repair typeQuote amount (USD)

Typical professional price for this job: $150–$600

Common questions

Will a window well cover stop leaks?

It stops leaks caused by rain collecting in the well or surface water pouring over the rim. It won't fix a failed drain or groundwater pressure.

Do all window wells need a drain?

Most should have one, either connected to the foundation drain or a gravel base that lets water soak away. Without drainage, water has nowhere to go but through the window.