Water in a lift pit or shaft is a common issue in many parts of the world not just Australia. Over the years we have noticed that particularly in areas with high rainfall such as coastal regions, parts of Queensland, and northern New South Wales, water ingress in lift shafts can be more frequent.

In cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, heavy seasonal rains or tropical storms, which occur particularly in the summer months can result in significant water issues if drainage systems are not properly maintained or the lift pit is not well-sealed.

In urban areas with many high-rise buildings and Subterranean Developments, lift pits are typically situated below ground level or in basements, which increases the likelihood of water intrusion, especially if there are issues with groundwater or drainage.

How Does Water Enter Lift Pits?

Lift pits are usually located below ground level, which makes them prone to water ingress. There are a few reasons as to why water might be leaking into a lift pit:

• Rising Groundwater: After heavy rain, the water table can rise and seep into the pit. This is especially common during the wet season or in areas with poor drainage.
• Cracks or Damage: Over time, cracks can form in the walls or floor of the lift pit, allowing water to sneak in. Sometimes, poorly installed or aging waterproofing systems can also be the culprit. Older buildings, particularly those built before modern waterproofing techniques became standard are more prone to water ingress issues in lift shafts.
• Drainage Issues: Blocked or overwhelmed storm drains during heavy rainfall can cause water to back up into the lift pit.
• Building Movement: Shifts or settling in the building’s foundation can create gaps that water can flow through, especially if the structure has been in place for many years.

How Does This Affect the Lift?

Water in your lift pit isn’t just an inconvenience—it can have serious consequences for the lift and the overall safety of the building:

• Lift Malfunctions: Water can damage the lift’s electrical system and mechanical parts, leading to breakdowns or even complete failure. If water gets into the electrical components, it can pose a major safety risk, like electrical shorts or fires.
• Corrosion: Continuous exposure to water can cause essential lift parts, such as cables and motors, to corrode over time. This can lead to expensive repairs or even the need for a full lift replacement.
• Health and Safety Risks: Stagnant water can create slip hazards and lead to mould or bacteria growth in the pit, which is dangerous for maintenance workers. 
• Lift Downtime: When the lift isn’t working properly, it can disrupt daily operations, especially in high-rise buildings. Having an out-of-service lift can be a major inconvenience for tenants and staff.

Reasons to fix a lift shaft leak

Letting water issues go unresolved can lead to a whole host of problems down the line. Here’s why you should take action as soon as you notice a potential issue:

• Safety First: Water exposure can create electrical hazards, cause corrosion, and make the pit unsafe for technicians. Fixing the leak protects everyone who works in or around the lift.
• Save Money: The longer you leave a water leak, the more damage it can do to the lift and the surrounding structure. Early repairs mean less costly fixes in the future.
• Keep Your Lift Running: A dry lift pit ensures that your lift system stays in top condition, avoiding unexpected breakdowns and ensuring smooth operation.
• Protect Your Building: A wet lift pit can lead to structural damage over time. Stopping water ingress now helps protect the integrity of your building in the long run.

Solution: SNSeal Injectable Sealant & Membrane 

Our team of expert waterproofers know exactly how to handle lift pit leaks, ensuring long-lasting, high-quality results.

We start by assessing the situation to figure out where the water is coming from and how bad the damage is. Using SNSeal high-pressure injection, we seal up cracks and joints. A combination approach may be recommended with the installation of a comprehensive membrane System.

To avoid major disruptions we make the process as quick and hassle-free as possible. Our goal is to get your lift pit dry and safe again with minimal downtime.

If you’re dealing with water in your lift pit, don’t wait Contact us today, and let us show you how our Stop & Seal solution can keep your lift system running smoothly and your building safe.