My backyard floods when it rains
If every decent storm leaves a lake in the backyard, water creeping under the back door, or a soggy lawn for days, the stormwater isn't getting away the way it should. Sometimes it's a blocked pit or pipe that just needs clearing. Sometimes the yard was never set up to drain properly in the first place. Here's how to work out which, and what can be done.
Common causes
Blocked pits and pipes
Leaves, silt and tree roots block stormwater pits and the pipes that carry water to the street. When they're blocked, water has nowhere to go.
Downpipes discharging into the yard
Downpipes that just spill onto the ground, or connect to broken pipes underground, dump roof water straight into the yard.
Low spots and no drains
Yards that dip towards the house or a corner, with no pit to collect the water, will always pond after rain.
Paving and hard surfaces
Paths, patios and paving send more water into fewer places, overwhelming small pits.
Collapsed or broken pipe
An old stormwater pipe that has cracked or collapsed leaks water into the soil instead of carrying it away.
How we fix it
- Clear and inspect: we jet the stormwater lines and check them with a camera to find blockages and breaks. See drain jetting.
- Repair broken pipes: replace or reline the sections that have failed.
- Add pits and grated drains: in low spots and in front of doors. See stormwater pits.
- Connect downpipes properly: into the stormwater system, not onto the ground.
- Subsoil drainage: ag lines to drain water-logged lawns and garden beds. See backyard drainage.
If your yard can't drain to the street by gravity, there are other options, such as a stormwater pump. You get clear options and a fixed price before any work starts.
In southern Eastern Suburbs homes
Parts of Matraville, Botany, Pagewood and Eastgardens are low-lying and flat, so stormwater has less fall to the street. Older homes often have original clay stormwater pipes that roots have broken into. Sandy soil drains well when it's working, but once pits and pipes block, water ponds quickly. Our stormwater guide explains how a good system should work.
Why locals call us
- Local to Matraville and the southern Eastern Suburbs
- Free on-site quotes, with a fixed price before any work starts
- Lifetime labour warranty on our workmanship
- 100+ five-star Google reviews
- Licensed plumbers and gasfitters (Lic. 398171C)
Common questions
Why does my backyard flood when it rains?
Usually blocked or broken stormwater pipes and pits, downpipes discharging into the yard, or low spots with no drain to collect the water.
How do I stop water pooling in my backyard?
Clear and repair the existing stormwater, add pits or grated drains in low spots, connect downpipes properly and add subsoil drainage where needed.
Who is responsible for stormwater on my property?
The property owner looks after the stormwater pipes and pits on their land, up to where they connect to the council's system.
Can water from a flooded yard get under the house?
Yes. Water pooling against the house can get under floors and into walls, so it's worth fixing early.
Related help: stormwater, backyard drainage, stormwater pits, blocked downpipes and overflowing gutters. Local pages: Matraville, Botany, Pagewood and Eastgardens.