Drainage Corrections

A useful assessment looks at where water comes from, where it collects and where it can go. Photos taken during rain, a survey and a history of previous work help distinguish symptoms from causes.

An engineer may be needed when a recurring drainage problem affects buildings or neighboring land, or when proposed repairs could redirect water elsewhere.

Confirm the engineering scope with the professional you engage and any permit requirements with the local building department.

Topics that may be relevant to the review: French drain, catch basin, culvert, detention pond, retention pond and storm inlet.

The engineer can review existing conditions, evaluate the proposed changes and prepare the calculations or design details included in the agreed scope.

• Investigating water collecting beside a building
• Assessing runoff after neighboring ground levels change

Start with a short description. These details can help define the scope, but you do not need everything ready to request a quote.

• The project city or county, and the property address if known
• What you want to build, change or repair
• How the space or site is used now and what you plan to change
• Whether you have drawings or photos to share during follow-up
• The status of any permit application and comments received
• Your target dates or other scheduling constraints

• Site Plans
• Grading & Drainage
• Stormwater Engineering

Terms that may appear in plans, permit comments or contractor conversations about this work.

• French drain
• catch basin
• culvert
• detention pond
• drainage
• retention pond
• storm inlet
• stormwater
• swale