I’m planning on building an addition (~400sf) to my home. I’d like to add a basement to that new space as well, but I’m worried that we have a high water table. How do I know if I am able to build a basement? I’m approximately 1/2 mile from the ocean, in California.
When adding a basement, a soil report will be needed. As part of this report, you will learn the extent of how the water table will affect you. In addition, the report will give design requirements for the support of your basement as well as the drainage and water barrier requirements. If your water table is below the depth of your basement there are standard products which will completely seal the water out. They are like the pool liner in an above ground pool. Once in place, water cannot get into your basement.
I hope that helps.