Drainage Solutions for GTA Properties
Engineered drainage systems that protect your foundation and keep your yard usable.
Poor drainage is one of the most common and damaging property issues across the Greater Toronto Area. The combination of heavy clay soils that resist water infiltration, increasing rainfall intensity from climate change, and aging municipal stormwater systems means more GTA properties are experiencing pooling water, soggy yards, wet basements, and foundation damage than ever before. Left unaddressed, drainage issues escalate: saturated soil exerts hydrostatic pressure on foundation walls, freeze-thaw cycles amplify cracks, and persistent moisture creates conditions for mould and structural deterioration. The good news is that most residential drainage problems are solvable with proper diagnosis and the right combination of grading corrections, French drains, catch basins, downspout extensions, and channel drains. Buildoreno diagnoses and resolves drainage issues across the GTA using a systematic approach — we identify where water is coming from, where it needs to go, and design the most effective and least disruptive solution for your specific property conditions.
What you get, done right
What's the water actually doing?
Most GTA water problems have a cheaper fix than people fear. Pick the symptom and we'll tell you the likely cause, the right fix, and a real price band — including when a simple regrade is all you need.
Tell us the symptom
Most GTA water and grading problems have a cheaper fix than people fear. Pick what you're seeing and we'll tell you the likely cause, the right fix, and a real price band — including when a simple regrade is all you need.
Our process, step by step
- 1Drainage Assessment
We evaluate your property's grading, soil permeability, downspout discharge points, and the location and timing of water problems. We may observe the property during or after rain for definitive diagnosis.
- 2Solution Design
Based on assessment findings, we design a drainage plan using the appropriate combination of techniques. We explain each component's purpose and provide a detailed quote with alternatives if applicable.
- 3Installation
Drainage systems are installed with proper slopes, filter fabric, clean stone, and connections. Trenches are carefully excavated to avoid damaging utilities and existing landscaping wherever possible.
- 4Testing & Restoration
We test the system with water to verify flow rates and discharge points function correctly. Trenches are backfilled, turf or landscaping is restored, and we provide maintenance guidelines.
What it costs
Every Buildoreno estimate is a free, itemized written quote — no hidden line items. Your exact price depends on site conditions, materials, and scope.
See the full landscaping cost guide →Last updated: March 2026
Drainage Solutions questions, answered
The most common causes in the GTA are: clay soil that doesn't absorb water quickly, improper grading that directs water toward the house instead of away, overwhelmed municipal stormwater systems during heavy rain, and compacted soil from construction. Often it's a combination of factors.
A French drain is a perforated pipe in a gravel trench that intercepts and redirects subsurface water — ideal for wet areas and foundation protection. A catch basin is a surface inlet that collects standing water and routes it through solid pipe to a discharge point. Many properties benefit from both.
We minimize disruption by using narrow trenching equipment, working around established plants, and restoring disturbed areas. For existing gardens, we can often route drains along property edges and under pathways. Some disturbance is inevitable but we restore everything to pre-construction condition.
An exterior French drain along the foundation is often the most effective solution for wet basements. It intercepts water before it reaches the wall. For existing foundations, interior weeping tile with a sump pump is a less disruptive alternative. We assess your specific situation and recommend the best approach.
Water where it
shouldn't be?
Book a free drainage assessment. We'll find where the water's actually coming from, tell you honestly whether it's a regrade or a full French-drain system, and itemize every cost.
Call (647) 254-0877