ONE STAR -- VALUE DRY'S RESPONSE IS LONG ON PERSONAL ATTACKS AND SHORT ON ANSWERS TO ITS OWN DOCUMENTS I stand by my review of Value Dry Waterproofing. I am posting the documentation below so prospective customers do not have to rely solely on my account--or Value Dry's response. They can review the records themselves. READ THE DOCUMENTS FOR YOURSELF Evidence/document repository: https://drive.google.com/file/d/18pPnhHNvgP4zQYoVnJO3QH2wNIMW9iCe/view?usp=drivesdk Supporting document folder: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EK1FmNPBOstxPJaLCoYDJrnEz0BRgDsx?usp=drive_link My Google review: https://g.co/kgs/N6AaKpK Google Maps -- Value Dry Waterproofing: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Value%20Dry%20Waterproofing%20Maryland Google Maps -- my review/contributor page: https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/104093219281248631229/reviews Yelp -- Value Dry Waterproofing: https://www.yelp.com/biz/value-dry-waterproofing-baltimore I paid Value Dry $8,000 in two $4,000 payments toward an approximately $12,000 project involving my raised house, foundation-related work, masonry, structural supports, and coordination with my house-moving contractor. This is not simply a homeowner saying, "I didn't like the work." The dispute is documented. On July 13, 2026, Value Dry President James Ketterer met with me and prepared a written agreement identifying remaining work that included: * Installing two Lally columns * Removing existing block columns and debris * Patching 12 openings with block and cement * Removing concrete debris Value Dry also wrote that it was working to bring my project to completion under the agreements between us. Then came one of the most significant admissions in the entire dispute. Value Dry acknowledged in writing that its representative had not properly followed the change-order process. Mr. Ketterer stated that Danny should have identified the unforeseen work, explained the additional cost, put it in writing, and obtained my signature before the work was performed. That matters because Value Dry was seeking an additional $1,500 to close and restore openings after the masonry had already been removed. So this was not merely my allegation that I disliked an extra charge. Value Dry itself acknowledged that its change-order and approval process had not been properly followed. There were also documented coordination issues. On July 8, Value Dry told me: "We are scheduled with Wolfe on Friday." On July 9, I responded: "Please continue to communicate with Wolfe. He wants you there when he arrives." Those communications occurred while the project was actively underway--not months later after the dispute developed. Then, on July 14, after masonry surrounding a temporary structural support appeared compromised, I sent Value Dry photographs and an urgent written warning. Value Dry Vice President of Operations Shad Lyle subsequently confirmed that a crew was scheduled to return on July 21. Value Dry also communicated that the project had been placed on its schedule and discussed the remaining work. Then everything changed. On July 17, Mr. Ketterer informed me that Value Dry would perform no additional work, would seek no additional payment, and would consider the money already received "adequate compensation" for the work completed. The scheduled July 21 return was canceled. So prospective customers should consider the documented sequence: A dispute arises over additional charges the company president meets with the customer the remaining work is reduced to writing Value Dry acknowledges that its change-order process was not properly followed follow-up work is scheduled a structural-support concern is reported the July 21 return is confirmed Value Dry withdraws from the project before that scheduled return. Much of that chronology comes directly from Value Dry's own communications. What I find particularly troubling is that, instead of answering these documents point by point, Value Dry's public response has focused heavily on criticizing me personally. Personal attacks do not install Lally columns. Personal attacks do not patch 12 openings. Personal attacks do not explain an acknowledged failure to follow the proper change-order process. Personal attacks do not erase a written agreement. Personal attacks do not explain why work was scheduled and then canceled. And attacking a customer's personality does not make documented emails, photographs, payment records, scheduling messages, or written agreements disappear. If Value Dry believes that anything I have stated is materially false, there is a simple way to address it: Identify the statement. Identify the date. Produce the document that contradicts it. I will hold myself to the same standard. If a document shows that I made a factual error, I will correct it. What I will not do is substitute reputation, friendships, testimonials, marketing claims, or personal attacks for documentary evidence. A company can serve 100 cu read more

I am updating my review after Danny came out to salvage the situation in my basement. I refrain from giving 5 stars because of the initial encounter. Nonetheless, definitely a big shout-out to Danny for saving the day! Danny did a good job cleaning up the situation left by his worker last Fri. He was polite and patient in explaining things (which i was expecting the first day of work). Anyway, 1. After seeing the situation of my basement, he did agree that it was not the best of condition. He specified under no circumstances should the tiles be left broken jagged/ unevenly. 2. He cleaned and tidied up the uneven broken tiles. He also paneled up the wall & fixed the legs of the sink. I know he worked hard on this! 3. I was made to understand the worker had all the equipment he needed last Fri but he chickened out. (this in my opinion doesn't bode well for the company - needs to be nipped in the bud) 4. Danny was supposed to be present himself last Fri but he was attending the funeral of the owner's father in Pennsylvania. I told him all this misunderstanding can easily be avoided if someone has the courtesy to call me in the morning of the day itself and make clear of the exact situation. All in all, damage control is done but damage prevention would be a better option. ****************************************************************************** Original post: I read great reviews and recommendation from my co-worker about this company. but boy, was I wrong! This is the worst company I had ever seen/dealt with in my entire life!! I was given a quote of $5012 after discounts. And promised that this is going to be a one day work. So fine, I took the day off work on 3/30/18 (Fri) so that they can complete the job. The workers turned up on time on the scheduled date- this is the only thing I like. 1. As soon as they arrived, I was told that they may not finish the work today. Depending on how fast they can work. I think this is fair. But I do not like the msg that was relayed. It almost felt like they already didn't want to complete the work on schedule before they even started anything. 2. At noon, (the actual work started around 830am), I was informed that they do not have the proper equipment to install the wall panel. They did however finish digging a hole in the ground and sealing it with concrete. And they removed 2 stands of my laundry sink and I was told, a) i can put it back on myself or b) i can wait for them to return to fix it. Does'nt matter that i took the day off work to accommodate this work and i have to call to make another appointment for the work to be completed. They need to leave and they left. 3. The final condition of the floor is horrendous! it was explained to me that they will make a thin opening on the tiled floor (damaged tiles i can understand) and pour the concrete to the tiled level. What I have now are totally uneven floors (3 different levels - tiled level, the concrete level and in between levels where there is no concrete). 4. I called the company to lodge a complain and was told that this is the expected work, the guy had to leave to attend a funeral (if this is true why did he give me the crap reason of having no proper equipment? the main guy said he has been in this business since 2003, how can he now know what he needs?) Now i need to use the laundry sink, I tried to fix the sink myself but i can't. Such great inconvenience for sloppy and irresponsible work! I also voiced the uneven level of flooring to Russell (the inspector) and was told to work with whoever is coming to fix it next. I detected a sense of annoyance in his voice and said this is normal. No, I do not believe this is normal at all. 5. I like to leave good reviews because i understand everyone wants to make an honest and decent living but this is atrocious and totally ridiculous!! Totally disappointed. Would greatly counsel against anyone who wants to use their service. Let there not be another unsuspecting customer like me! read more

I'm giving Value Dry Waterproofing 4 out of 5 stars. Overall, they were the most professional company I dealt with throughout the entire process, and they definitely put the "value" in Value Dry. I spent a little over $44,000 on a fairly extensive project that included foundation straps, a complete waterproofing system, and two sump pumps. The inspector I worked with was excellent during the sales process. He was professional, knowledgeable, and never pushy or high-pressure. He took the time to explain the entire waterproofing system in detail, how it worked, and how Value Dry's approach compared with the other companies I was considering. One of the biggest reasons I ultimately chose Value Dry was being able to actually see and compare the quality of the products and finishes he brought out during the inspection. That quality carried through to the installation. Their system was noticeably more refined than some of the alternatives I was quoted. For example, the sump systems are largely installed below the floor rather than taking up a large amount of space in the basement. They were also able to literally tunnel underneath my existing plumbing to install the waterproofing system. This was a surprisingly big differentiator. Other contractors told me the plumbing would have to be moved before they could do the job, and they also made clear that they would not handle that work themselves. In other words, I would have needed to find and coordinate a completely separate plumbing contractor, potentially be without water for days, and then somehow line all of that up with the waterproofing work. Realistically, who wants to deal with that on top of an already major basement project? Value Dry was able to work around the existing plumbing and keep the project under one roof, which made a huge difference for me. I intentionally waited to write this review until we had gone through a few good storms so I could see how the system actually performed. So far, everything has stayed dry and the system appears to be working exactly as intended. The installation crew was excellent to work with, professional throughout the project, and the quality of the finished work has been very good. My only real criticism is the communication after the sale. Once the contract was signed and the cancellation period had passed, the inspector was understandably less involved and it became more difficult to know exactly who my point of contact was. It was also a little confusing getting a firm start date. We had agreed on a date about a month in advance, but when I emailed shortly beforehand to confirm, the response was essentially, "I need to check with production," which left me unsure whether we were actually starting on the date we had previously agreed to. I don't really fault the inspector for that, since his role is primarily on the sales and inspection side, but I do think Value Dry could improve the handoff between sales and production once a project is booked. A clearer point of contact and firmer communication around scheduling would make the overall experience even better. That said, this was more of an inconvenience than a major problem. The crew was great, the finished work has been solid, and most importantly, my basement has remained dry through multiple storms. Overall, I'm very happy with the result and would recommend Value Dry. The post-sale communication and scheduling experience are really the only reasons I'm giving them four stars instead of five. read more

UPDATE: We are now about 1 year out from the first half of our basement install that we had Value Dry Waterproofing do for us. We haven't had ANY water penetration to the side of the house where they installed the system (and yes, we have been regularly checking). Win! We have now also installed a system on the second half of our basement and once again, we have had a wonderful experience with the Value Dry Team. From our initial call to schedule a consultation to having the project consultant Russ come and assess the scope of work and as of this evening having the installation be completed, we are more than satisfied by the level of service we have received. Our Senior foreman, David Shannon was knowledgable, punctual (showed up at 7:30am on the dot both mornings), caring and wanted to ensure we were satisfied in every way. He explained things in detail and I never felt pressured. His entire crew was also immensely helpful and courteous even going so far as to sweep the dust out of the UNFINISHED basement when they left. Great company and great employees all around. Thank you again to Russ, David and the entire crew who helped make our basement a clean and dry space for our family to enjoy! We have had a wonderful experience with Value Dry Waterproofing. They are punctual, honest, and transparent. They responded quickly to our calls and have been very responsive to our needs. We even called the estimator on a Sunday morning and he showed up at our house Sunday afternoon to help us diagnose our problem. This speaks to the integrity of those in the company. They truly care about helping out their customers. We are confident in our waterproofing job and highly recommend Jim and the whole Value Dry team to anyone looking to get any sort of home waterproofing done. Don't be fooled by other pop-up companies who will likely not be in existence in a few years. These guys are the real deal and offer warranties unlike any other company. We interviewed numerous companies and settled on Value Dry based on their reviews and high ratings and we are thoroughly impressed. Highly recommend! read more

We had been having water issues in our basement for the past 7 years, and finally got to the point where we wanted to get a permanent solution. After a couple of estimates, and determining we had water coming up through our concrete slab, we contacted Value Dry. They sent one of their best sales representatives in Carlos, and he took the time to get to know us, the history of our issues, and suggested possible fixes and solutions. He listened to what we had to say, was extremely professional, and had our best interest in mind. We decided to move forward on an entire water-proofing system in our basement to alleviate any water issues and be able to rest assuredly knowing we were receiving a lifetime warranty for the work completed. On day 1 of the project, we met the foreman, Raul. He took me through the scope of the work, was very professional, knowledgeable, and thorough. He checked in with me each morning of the job, showed me what they did the previous day, and explained what they were going to complete that day. The work is finished, the basement is dry, and we are very happy with the quality of the job. I have already recommended Value Dry, specifically Carlos, and Raul to my neighbors. I can't say enough positive things about their professionalism, expertise, and the quality of the work Value Dry provided. Very happy with the results! read more

My basement started flooding with the heavy rains in the beginning of May. I reached out on Friday, 5/6 to Value Dry after conducting a Google Search. I was called within a few hours and they set up my inspection the next day at 9 AM (when they typically conduct appointments beginning at 10 AM, however, they made an exception because I had a conflict). Bill Strong came out to inspect and was amazing. I cannot rave about this man enough. He was empathetic and compassionate when addressing our issue. He explained things thoroughly, as we are first time homebuyers and a lot of this is foreign to us. He walked through everything we would need to fully waterproof the home (sump pump replacement, drainage system placement, insulation), and was able to set it up quickly (renovation began three days later), which I was so thankful for because heavy rains were expected the following week. He has even made himself available for any lingering questions after the inspection was complete with prompt responses and assistance. I am so appreciative of Value Dry, especially Bill Strong. I would highly recommend Value Dry and Bill Strong to anyone who is seeking waterproofing services. read more

First used this company in 2012 right after Hurricane Sandy hit my home hard. Water on all floors, roof, second floor, first floor and basement. The basement was the worst and after Value Dry installed a new sump pump and drainage system I have not had water inside my basement again. And now in 2019 I called upon them again for a home I purchased in Hyattsville MD. The wat issues were hidden when I first inspected the home and the home inspection did not mention it either because the wet areas were covered by clothing and stuff. But when the heavy rains hit there was water in the center of the basement and the entire front wall; so, I called Dry Value again and they came thru for me. They took care of the water seekage by installing drains and a new sump pump which the property did not have before. I also have a new basement window egress that I think is simply sexy. I am so happy and without hesitation refer Value Dry to friends and family. Should I ever get another home with water problems or need a basement window egress, they will be the ones I turn to. read more

After buying our house our finished basement flooded twice and water began seeping in through the walls. We got quotes from several waterproofing companies in the area. ValueDry's quote was lower than some, but we just felt really good about the company after reading the reviews and meeting the sales rep Bill Strong, who explained everything in very clear detail and patiently answered all of our many questions. We went with them and they installed a french drain, plastic on the walls under the drywall, and a sump pump. We went with the easy breath ventilation system as well. The quality of their work was great and we have not had a single problem over the past two years, despite all the crazy weather and torrential rains in Silver Spring. At least one of our neighbors who used a competitor company had flooding in their "waterproofed" basement after the recent flash floods, but we didn't have any issues. Bill kindly came back out after about a year to teach us how to flush the system. He's a great guy and we were very happy with this company. read more

We purchased a home that was built in the 1940's and during the winters, the house was unbearably cold, making most of the house miserable to be in and the heating bills were extremely high. Our crawl space wasn't sealed up. After reading outstanding reviews, we called Value Dry and Jim Ketterer and his team were exceptional to work with. They inspected what needed to be done, gave me an estimate that matched what I paid them, and they guaranteed the work even with transfer of home ownership. We had the crawl space encapsulated, added a sump pump with a back up, a sump pump drain, a window well with drainage, and they installed insulation in the cement walls of the foundation to completely seal it. We also have a humidistat so we can control the humidity underneath the house. Exceptional job! Our coldest days outside were mitigated inside by the insulation and our house is very comfortable to be in during the winter now. They worked hard to make sure the job was done correctly and I highly recommend their services. read more

Mike N 6 months ago- We had a very wet crawlspace in our home and we were trying to sell it. The musty smell was obvious to any potential buyer. We contacted Value Dry and they were very prompt in sending out a representative to meet with us and explain our options. He was very patient with our many questions. Our goal was to have as a dry a crawlspace as we could manage within our budget. We ended up with a fairly basic encapsulation of the crawlspace that completely covered the foundation walls and the concrete floor. I installed a dehumidifier and ran water line to our sump. There were a few hitches after the installation, but a Value Dry tech came out promptly to do the repair. All in all, I am very pleased with the work that they've done on our house. We had 25 people look at our house over the course of five months before the encapsulation. We got zero offers for our house. Two days after the installation of the system, we got our first offer on the house. Fingers crossed. read more

Five-Star Review for Value Dry Waterproofing In my 50 years as a homeowner, I have never encountered a contractor as honest and forthright as Value Dry Waterproofing. This company is truly exceptional. Bill Strong, the estimator, was clear, transparent, and trustworthy from the beginning--qualities that are unfortunately rare in the contracting world. Freddie, the field supervisor, has been equally impressive. He is managing the project at my home with professionalism, efficiency, and integrity. Value Dry Waterproofing, along with its remarkable team, has exceeded every expectation. They say what they're going to do--and they do it. It's that simple. In an era where promises are often broken, this company delivers. They have earned every bit of a five-star rating in my book, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in need of waterproofing services. -- A Very Satisfied Homeowner Towson md read more

Our basement was always having water problems from the day we bought our house. I called Value Dry Waterproofing to come out and see how we can fix this problem. We kept having water problem near our door and Carlos came out to take a look at it. Carlos looked at the door and told us the problem and we had him take a look around the basement and see if there was anything else. Sure enough, Carlos saw mold in our storage room in the basement. Water was pushing through the brick wall causing mold. I didn't notice the mold on the walls because we had stuff covering it with our stuff. Thanks for Carlos to spot it out. Carlos was able to fix our door problem and our moldy walls problem and stopping the water from coming inside the house. Carlos gave us a great deal on fixing all my wife and I problems. I will definitely recommend Carlos to come out and take a look at your problems. read more

We had a great experience with Value Dry Waterproofing. Carlos came out to give us an estimate for installing a sump pump and to waterproof our basement, and he made the entire process actually enjoyable. He was very knowledgable and was able to answer any question I asked. The workers were quick, efficient, and left my house and yard clean when they were finished. It's now a few months later, and we have contacted them again to install an egress window. Again, Carlos came out quickly to give us an estimate, which we received that same day. There was no pressure to go with their company, just a lot of information to help make our decision. We are extremely comfortable using them again, and can't wait to see the window they install. I will be back on after that to review their second job. I can't recommend this company enough! read more

In the midst of selling our house, the buyer's home inspector identifies some wetness in our basement wall and flags some potentially "serious" seepage issues - something completely unexpected to us. ValueDry was able to take a look the next day, identify the issue as a minor grading problem around a gutter spout, and provide a quote to take care of the problem at less than a third of the home inspector's estimated price. Additionally, even though this occurred right in the middle of their busiest season, ValueDry's owner was able to fit us in, finishing the work on a weekend with ample time to meet the buyer's contingencies on our sales contract. Without ValueDry, I think the sale would have fallen through. Big thanks and a wholehearted endorsement! read more

Value Dry was a referral from another small local company whom I trust. My basement in a historic section of NW DC was damp and musty, even AFTER I had a sump pump and outdoor drainage system installed years ago. Inspector/Engineer Bill Strong spent several hours with me discussing the problems and coming up with a plan. He was amazingly thorough and helped me thru the whole process. They added indoor pipes thru closets and a bedroom wall to get to the sump pump, installed a backup sump pump and an Easy Breathe system to keep the air fresh and circulating. It's been over a month and the air feels and smells fresh throughout my basement. I highly recommend them. BTW, I live in Washington DC and have no idea why YELP thinks I'm in San Francisco. read more

Pros: they went out of their way to schedule the work in my house around my limited availability; management was responsive and flexible and personable; the installation crew was first rate (thank you Roger); when the job was done I had a constructive conversation with the Director where we discussed opportunities to improve the process. Cons: make sure you have the opportunity to go through the detailed sales deck - I missed this step as I was out of town and it led to a number of incorrect assumptions for both parties. I found the people to be good, time will tell if their installed product is good, customer experience was mixed but ended strong with the conversation with the Director. read more

I had moisture issues in my basement and called ValueDry for a french drain/moisture barrier, along with two EasyBreathe units installation to remedy the issue. They crew that came out showed up on time (if not, earlier), worked very quickly, and left my house clear of any debris they created. Hopefully, in future houses, I won't have basement moisture issues, but if I do, I would definitely call ValueDry for any moisture mitigation projects. I meant to send this review back in June, but never got around to it. It is now Sept and my basement is still dry even with the ridiculous amount of rain we've been getting. Call these guys if you have a water problem! read more

Having just purchased a home with an extensive water proofing system installed by Value Dry, I wanted to make sure everything was in tip-top shape. Considering the system comes with a transferrable warranty, I also wanted to make certain that was honored. Mike Greene came out to perform service on the system and took extra time to go over it with me in great detail. I felt much more at ease with the system and can't thank Mike enough for his time, attention to detail and thoughtfulness. Thank you so much! I will certainly recommended their services and Mike as well. read more

I first used Value Dry for a house in Chevy Chase in 2004 and used them for a 2nd time on a house in Herndon. I didnt get competitive bids on the 2nd house as I knew I would use Value Dry again. The owner Jim and his team do a great job...they are careful, efficient, clean and work hard to insure the job is done right. They have excellent customer support and follow up. Some of the negative reviews on here are baffling to me as this is one of the best contractors I have ever worked with...the reviews are probably from competitors who consistently lose to Value Dry. read more