How Much Does Yard Drainage Cost? [2025 Data]

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

Yard drainage costs average $4,620, with most projects ranging from $2,145 and $7,162. Prices depend on the drainage system, yard size, and materials. Homeowners may pay as little as $800 for simple fixes or up to $15,000 for complex solutions. Expect to pay $10 to $50 per linear foot for most drainage systems.

A well-designed drainage system keeps your property dry and protects your foundation. This guide explains yard drainage cost, what affects pricing, and how to make the best decision for your home.

Yard Drainage Cost Factors

Understanding what drives yard drainage costs helps you plan and budget wisely. Let’s break down the most important factors to consider.

System Type

The type of drainage system you install is often the biggest cost factor. Common options include French drains, trench drains, dry wells, catch basins, swales, and surface drains. Each system solves different drainage problems and fits different yard layouts.

French drains are popular for redirecting groundwater away from foundations, while trench drains handle surface water along driveways or patios. Dry wells collect excess water underground, and catch basins intercept runoff at low spots. Swales use gentle slopes to channel water naturally, and surface drains remove water from flat areas.

System type impacts both materials and labor. For example, French drains require digging and layers of gravel and pipe, while swales may only need regrading. Choose a system that matches your yard’s needs and water issues. For example, French drains are best for soggy lawns, while swales work well for gentle slopes.

Size

The size of your yard and the length of drainage required have a direct impact on total cost. Larger yards or multiple problem areas need more materials and labor, increasing your overall investment.

Small yards with one drainage issue cost less, while medium and large properties with several problem spots need longer runs or more systems. The number of zones or drainage points also matters—each additional area adds to the total.

Materials

Materials are another major driver of yard drainage cost. Common materials include perforated pipe, gravel, geotextile fabric, catch basins, sump pumps, and connectors. The quality of these materials—standard versus premium—affects both performance and price.

For example, high-quality geotextile fabric costs more but lasts longer and prevents clogs more effectively. Sump pumps and decorative grates also add to the total.

Labor

Labor is a significant portion of your yard drainage cost. Most homeowners hire landscapers, drainage specialists, or general contractors for installation. Hourly labor rates range from $50 to $150 per hour, or you might see per-project pricing included in your estimate.

Labor costs are higher in regions with a higher cost of living. Complex projects—such as those with tricky access, rocky soil, or steep slopes—require more time and skill, raising the price. In most cases, per-foot estimates include labor, but some contractors bill separately, so always check your quote.

Prep

Site preparation is essential and can affect your overall yard drainage cost. Prep tasks often include grading, removing debris, and marking underground utilities. For most yards, expect to pay $300 to $1,000 for site prep.

Difficult sites—such as those with dense tree roots, rocky soil, or steep grades—may need extra work or soil testing. In rare cases, an engineering consultation is required, especially near foundations or retaining walls, which raises the prep cost.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory for yard drainage installation crews, but it's appreciated for excellent service. If you choose to tip, $20 to $50 per worker is a common amount. Alternatively, providing refreshments, snacks, or a meal is a thoughtful gesture. Always consider your budget and the size of the crew.

Additional Cost Factors

Several other factors can increase your yard drainage cost:

• Removing old or failed drainage systems before installation.

• Restoring your yard after construction, including reseeding or sod.

• Permit and inspection fees, if required by local codes.

• Addressing foundation or structural issues near your home.

• Integrating the drainage system with landscaping, hardscaping, or irrigation.

• Adding decorative grates, covers, or privacy hedges.

• Dealing with unexpected obstacles, such as buried utilities or large rocks.

These extras can add hundreds to thousands of dollars, so discuss them with your contractor during planning.

Yard Drainage Ongoing Costs

Beyond installation, yard drainage systems require ongoing care and occasional repairs. Let’s explore what you can expect over time.

Maintenance

Routine maintenance keeps your drainage system working efficiently. Tasks include clearing debris, flushing pipes, and inspecting for clogs or damage. Homeowners who handle maintenance themselves spend an average of $50 to $200 per year, mostly on tools and supplies.

If you hire a professional for annual maintenance, expect to pay $100 to $400 per visit, depending on system size and complexity. Regular upkeep prevents costly repairs and extends your system’s lifespan.

Operating Costs

Some yard drainage systems, like those with sump pumps, have ongoing operating costs. Electricity to run a sump pump adds $30 to $100 per year to your utility bills. If your system uses water for flushing or disposal, check for any municipal fees.

Smart monitoring or automated drainage systems may require subscription fees, but these are uncommon in most residential yards.

Repairs

Even well-installed drainage systems need repairs from time to time. Common fixes include clearing blockages, repairing collapsed pipes, or addressing erosion around outlets.

Minor repairs cost $200 to $700, while major issues—such as replacing long pipe sections or rebuilding outlets—can reach $1,000 to $3,000. Keep an eye out for slow drainage, standing water, or visible damage, and budget accordingly.

Insurance

Homeowners' insurance sometimes covers drainage system repairs, but this depends on your policy and the cause of damage. Some insurers offer premium discounts for improved drainage, especially if you reduce the risk of flooding or water intrusion.

If repairs are not covered, you’ll pay out of pocket. Always review your policy and ask your agent about coverage and discounts related to yard drainage.

DIY Yard Drainage vs. Hiring a Pro

Many homeowners wonder if they can save on yard drainage costs by doing the work themselves. Let’s compare DIY and professional approaches.

DIY projects save on labor but require you to buy or rent materials and tools. Professional installation costs more but includes labor, expertise, and warranties.

DIY yard drainage requires skills like digging, grading, and using power tools. You’ll need safety gear and enough time—simple jobs might take a weekend, while larger projects can take several days. Mistakes can be costly, leading to ineffective drainage or property damage.

Hiring a pro is recommended for complex projects, installations near your foundation, or if you’re unsure about local codes. Pros ensure the system is sized and installed correctly, which protects your investment.

Cost of Common Yard Drainage Add-Ons

Add-ons can increase your yard drainage cost but often provide important benefits or aesthetic upgrades. Here’s what to consider:

• Sump pump installation: $500 to $2,000, including wiring and setup

• Downspout extensions or gutter modifications: $100 to $800

• Landscaping restoration or sod replacement: $300 to $3,000, depending on yard size

• Decorative grates or covers: $50 to $300 each

• Erosion control measures (retaining walls, riprap): $1,000 to $8,000

• Integration with rain gardens or water harvesting systems: $800 to $5,000

• Adding new drainage zones or expanding an existing system: $1,000 to $5,000

Discuss these options with your contractor to balance function, cost, and curb appeal.

Tips to Reduce Cost While Installing Yard Drainage

You can manage your yard drainage cost by making smart choices at every step. Here are effective ways to save:

• Get multiple quotes from qualified local yard drainage pros to compare pricing and options.

• Choose the right drainage system for your yard’s specific water issues—avoid over-engineering.

• Use standard materials where possible; reserve premium options for critical areas.

• Prepare the site yourself, such as clearing debris or marking utilities, to reduce labor charges.

• Bundle yard drainage with other landscaping projects for possible discounts.

• Schedule installation during off-peak seasons when contractors are less busy.

• Maintain your system regularly to prevent expensive emergency repairs.

• Consider phased installation for large yards to spread costs over time.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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