Standard Water Control Systems review: Concerns regarding misleading advertising and service by standard water control

Despite the claims presented on Standard Water Control’s website and marketing materials, installing a perimeter drain tile system does not guarantee protection against all forms of water seepage—specifically water intrusion through the center of a concrete basement floor.
The company features testimonials from customers in high water table or marsh-prone areas who report complete moisture mitigation for the lifetime of their foundation. Their brochure similarly promises: “Our quality drain tile installation will give you assurance against future water seepage for the lifetime of your foundation…” However, in practice, Standard Water Control only guarantees moisture protection within the one-foot perimeter of the foundation where the drain tile is actually installed. According to both the company’s owner and quality control specialist, any water intrusion occurring outside of this narrow perimeter is explicitly not covered.
When I consulted with a company salesman prior to installation, I was assured that a full-perimeter system would effectively resolve all basement water issues. He further stated that, should any issues arise, the owner would “make it right.” I relied on these representations—along with several testimonials from their website, including one from June 5, 2025, which reads: “This customer has water wicking up through their basement slab. To prevent this from continuing, Standard Water Control will install a perimeter drain tile system that is warrantied and fully transferable for the life of the home.” Another, dated March 5, 2025, claims the system is particularly effective in areas where water could seep through foundation walls or floors due to high groundwater levels and poor exterior drainage.
When I contacted the owner to ask why their system could purportedly prevent water wicking through a slab in other homes but not mine, I was told unequivocally that unless the company excavates and installs a moisture barrier under the entire foundation, water intrusion through the slab cannot be prevented—and that the guarantee only applies to the perimeter. When I raised concerns about the inconsistency between this explanation and the company’s marketing materials and sales promises, I was told that the guarantee is akin to a phone company advertising a “free phone”—an appealing claim that doesn’t hold up under scrutiny.
I ultimately spent over $14,000 on a system I believed—based on the sales presentation and marketing—would eliminate water issues in my basement. This turned out to be untrue. I continue to experience water seeping up through the center of my basement floor, which now poses a serious concern for my family, especially a household member with a compromised immune system who is highly vulnerable to respiratory issues related to mold and mildew.
Had I been fully informed of the system’s limitations and the narrow scope of its warranty, I would have pursued a less invasive and more cost-effective solution such as a high-capacity dehumidifier, rather than undergoing a major construction project.
I strongly encourage prospective customers to read their contract carefully. While the agreement disclaims responsibility for most forms of moisture intrusion, the company's advertising consistently implies otherwise. Moreover, the contract exempts the company from liability for property damage during installation. In my case, a large truck used to haul debris cracked my driveway, and sections of my basement walls were significantly damaged. The company’s contract is worded in such a way that they will refuse to accept responsibility, and my experience suggests they make minimal effort to prevent such damages during installation.
In summary, I am deeply disappointed with the company’s lack of transparency, the discrepancy between their promotional messaging and contractual terms, and the dismissive manner in which my concerns were addressed by both the owner and the quality control representative. I would not have chosen Standard Water Control had I been fully informed, and I caution others to review all information critically before proceeding.