Who Installs French Drains? A Handy Hiring Guide

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

If you are asking who installs french drains, hire a French drain installation specialist. This pro designs a drainage system to divert excess water away from your home, secures permits when required, and ensures code compliance. Use this hiring guide to understand what they do, alternatives to consider, and how the work gets done.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional French Drain Installation Contractor

French drain projects demand accurate design and careful execution. A dedicated specialist evaluates your property’s drainage patterns and builds a system that complies with local rules. They handle permits, choose the right materials, and aim for long-lasting performance with minimal disruption to your yard.

More reasons to hire a French drain installation contractor:

• Tailored layout addresses pooling and basement seepage.

• Materials selected for performance, including perforated pipe and gravel

• Landscape fabric used to limit sediment and reduce clogs

• Installation meets municipal codes and passes required inspections

• All permitting handled from application through approval

• Backfilling and surface restoration planned for a seamless yard appearance

• Reduced risk of future water backups or costly rework

• Clear plan to prevent runoff toward neighboring properties

• System built for long-term reliability and peace of mind

Can I Hire a Waterproofing or Foundation Specialists for French Drain Installation?

Basement waterproofing or foundation repair specialists can assess water intrusion and recommend French drains suited to a home’s specific conditions. However, they are not always specialists in this particular drainage system. Verify prior French drain installation experience before you hire.

Landscapers are a strong choice when yard pooling is the main issue. They integrate drains with your landscape design, assess water flow, select compatible materials, and evaluate grading or elevation changes to limit foundation seepage.

Plumbers are not the default option; in many states, plumber’s code does not cover French drains. Unless a plumber has specialized training, they often avoid this work. Ask your trusted plumber if they have relevant experience, but a French drain specialist is preferred. If your drainage issue is complex or you want to ensure the best results, you might want to consider a french drain contractor near you to ensure the job is done right the first time.

How Do Contractors Install French Drains?

A pro follows a clear process to keep the system effective and code compliant:

1. Permitting: Obtain required permits from your municipality.

2. Planning and design: Identify problem areas and map the optimal drain route and discharge location.

3. Excavation: Dig a trench along the planned path to the correct depth and slope.

4. Perforated pipe installation: Place a perforated pipe at the trench bottom to collect and redirect water.

5. Gravel placement: Surround the pipe with gravel to promote flow and add stability.

6. Landscape fabric: Add fabric above gravel when needed to help prevent soil from clogging the system.

7. Backfilling: Replace topsoil over the drain to close the trench.

8. Surface restoration: Restore lawn or landscape features for a clean finish.

Expect your pro to explain the route, discharge location, materials, and the restoration plan before work begins.

How Much Does French Drain Installation Cost?

The average french drain installation cost is $9,250. Your final price depends on the design’s complexity, the length of trenching, and site conditions. Labor costs range from $50 to $100 per hour. Permitting needs and landscape restoration also affect the total. Material choices such as perforated pipe, gravel, and landscape fabric, along with excavation labor and accessibility, influence the bottom line. Ensuring code compliance and passing inspections helps avoid additional costs later.