National contractor guide
How to compare drainage contractors
Direct answer: A drainage contractor should diagnose where water comes from, how it moves, where it can legally discharge, and what elevations make the solution work. Product-first proposals without measurements often relocate the problem.
Common project types
Standing-water diagnosis
Rain patterns, roof runoff, soil, infiltration, grades, low points, neighboring flow, and discharge options.
French drains
Purpose, trench elevation, pipe, stone, fabric, cleanouts, outlet, maintenance, and limitations.
Catch basins and solid pipe
Collection area, grate elevation, pipe size, slope, fittings, cleanouts, outlet, and surface restoration.
Grading and swales
Surveyed elevations, slope, soil, topsoil, sod or seed, erosion control, and downstream impact.
Driveway and patio drainage
Channel drains, inlets, pitch correction, permeable systems, outlets, and hardscape restoration.
Downspout management
Gutter capacity, outlets, buried solid pipe, cleanouts, pop-ups, daylight, dispersion, and freeze concerns.
What a complete estimate should state
- Observed sources, measured elevations, drainage area, and diagnosis
- Plan showing inlets, pipe, trench, slope, structures, outlets, and discharge point
- Pipe type and size, stone, fabric, basins, cleanouts, fittings, and protection
- Utility locating, permits, easements, stormwater rules, and neighbor impacts
- Excavation, spoil, access, equipment, landscaping, hardscape, and cleanup
- Testing, maintenance, warranty limits, and unit prices for concealed conditions
Proof to compare before hiring
- A site-specific explanation tied to rainfall and elevations
- Similar projects with visible inlets, outlets, and restoration
- Knowledge of local stormwater and discharge restrictions
- Written maintenance and performance limitations
Directory coverage and sponsored placement
ServiceGoat is building national directory coverage market by market. A contractor may advertise or claim a listing, but sponsored visibility should be labeled and is not proof of quality, review strength, licensing, or a top-rated designation. Direct matching is offered only where ServiceGoat has a verified route.
Drainage Contractors FAQ
Is a French drain always the right solution?
No. Surface grading, roof runoff, solid pipe, catch basins, swales, pumps, or source repair may be more appropriate depending on the water.
Where can yard water discharge?
Rules vary. The outlet must be legal, stable, and unlikely to damage neighboring property, slopes, streets, wetlands, or structures.
Why did my old drain stop working?
Possible causes include clogging, crushed pipe, inadequate slope, buried outlets, root intrusion, sediment, failed pumps, or a system that never matched the water source.
Should a drainage contractor take elevations?
For many projects, measurements are essential to verify slope, outlet feasibility, and whether the proposed system can work by gravity.