Breasy has completed 100K+ jobs across 12 U.S. markets. The cost ranges below are based on Breasy’s drainage project data.
French drain installation costs range from $1,650 to $12,250 in Breasy’s 2026 project data, with many projects falling between $25 and $85 per linear foot depending on drain type, depth, and soil conditions.
Interior basement drains generally cost more than outdoor yard drains because they can involve concrete work and sump pump requirements.
Breasy serves single-family rentals in 12 metros across 7 states. Commercial properties and locations outside our service areas may require different service arrangements.
Quick summary
- Exterior yard drains cost $1,650-$8,500 depending on depth and length. Interior basement systems run $3,500-$7,500, and many require a sump pump.
- Soil type, trench depth, access, and regional labor rates can significantly affect the final quote, so a site-assessed quote is more useful than a phone estimate.
- If you manage a rental property, submitting a work order with property details and photos gives Breasy the information needed to assess the scope before work begins.
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GET MY QUOTEFrench Drain Installation Cost at a Glance #
The table below shows Breasy’s budgeting ranges for different project types and drain lengths.
Breasy’s 2026 French Drain Cost Ranges #
| Project Type | Typical Cost Range | Cost Per Linear Foot |
| Shallow yard drain (50 ft) | $1,650-$3,500 | $25-$50 |
| Deep exterior footing drain (100 ft) | $4,500-$8,500 | $45-$85 |
| Interior basement drain (50 ft) | $3,500-$7,500 | $70-$150 |
| Full perimeter drain system | $8,000-$12,250 | $50-$75 |
Ranges are based on Breasy’s Q4 2025 project pricing across seven states and are presented as budgeting ranges for 2026. Jobs under 25 feet carry minimum charges of $1,200-$1,800.
These ranges reflect labor, materials, excavation difficulty, and other project-specific factors.
Which drainage fix actually solves your problem #
| Solution | Typical Cost | Best For | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| French drain | $1,650–$12,250 installed ($25–$150/linear ft depending on type) | Standing water that returns after every rain, or water already inside a basement | Requires excavation, and interior systems need concrete cutting |
| Yard regrading alone | $1,000–$3,300 (foundation regrading runs $500–$3,000) | Water pooling from a flat or reverse-sloped yard with no underlying groundwater issue | Doesn’t help when water is coming from below, not just running downhill |
| Swale | $10–$25 per linear foot to grade | Moving surface water across a yard with enough room for a visible graded channel | Won’t handle groundwater or a high water table, and needs space a French drain doesn’t |
| Catch basin | $300–$800 installed | A single low spot that collects water, tied into an existing drain line | Only fixes the one spot it’s installed at, not a whole perimeter |
Cost by French Drain Type #
The type of French drain installation you need depends on where water enters your property and what damage it threatens.
Interior vs Exterior #
Outdoor drains help prevent water from reaching the foundation, while interior drains manage water that has already entered the property. When access is viable, an exterior system may be suitable for addressing drainage around the foundation.
Interior drains can make sense when outdoor excavation is not practical, such as properties with attached neighbors, extensive landscaping, or limited side-yard access.
Outdoor French Drain Costs #
Outdoor systems involve digging a drainage trench, laying perforated pipe surrounded by gravel, and directing water away from the structure. The amount of excavation and the site conditions affect the labor required.
Shallow Yard Drains #
Shallow French drains are used for surface water and pooling in low areas. Breasy’s project ranges put these systems at $25-$50 per linear foot.
A 50-foot shallow drain typically falls within the $1,650-$2,500 installed range, depending on site conditions and project scope.
Deep Footing Drains #
Deeper perimeter drains are used for more substantial groundwater management and require more excavation than shallow yard drainage. Breasy’s project ranges put these systems at $45-$85 per linear foot.
A 100-foot footing drain system typically falls within the $4,500-$8,500 range.
Indoor Basement French Drain Costs #
Indoor systems can require concrete cutting, drain channels along basement walls, and a sump pump, which increases the amount of work involved. Breasy’s project ranges put these systems at $70-$150 per linear foot.
A 50-foot basement french drain typically falls within the $3,500-$7,500 range depending on basement access, concrete thickness, water conditions, and project scope.
Key takeaway
Linear-foot pricing is useful for budgeting, but the final cost can change significantly when site conditions affect excavation, access, drainage requirements, or other parts of the project.
Factors That Affect French Drain Installation Cost #
Length and drain type are only part of the calculation. Soil, access, excavation requirements, materials, labor, and local requirements can all affect the final quote.
Soil Conditions and Excavation Difficulty #
Sandy or loamy soil can be easier to excavate, while clay, rocky, or compacted soil can require more labor or specialized equipment.
Some markets also have soil conditions that make excavation more difficult. Breasy serves properties in markets where conditions such as caliche can affect the work required to excavate a drainage trench.
Trench Depth and Accessibility #
Drainage systems vary in depth depending on the property, drainage problem, and installation approach. Deeper excavation generally requires more work, while limited equipment access can make excavation more labor-intensive.
Materials, Pipe, Gravel, and Fabric #
| Material | Cost Range |
| Perforated PVC pipe (4-inch) | $0.50-$1.50 per foot |
| Drainage gravel | $25-$50 per cubic yard |
| Filter fabric | $0.15-$0.50 per square foot |
| Catch basins | $50-$150 each |
Higher-quality corrugated pipe with sock filters costs more upfront and may help limit soil and sediment from entering the drainage system.
Labor Costs by Region #
Labor rates vary by market, project complexity, site conditions, and the amount of time required for excavation and installation. The labor portion of a quote reflects both the applicable rate and the estimated work involved.
Permits and Local Requirements #
Permit requirements depend on the municipality and the project. Some jurisdictions require permits or inspections for drainage work, particularly when a system connects to stormwater infrastructure or affects property lines.
Local requirements can also affect the project timeline and may require additional review before work is completed.
Sump Pumps, Landscaping, and Discharge Costs #
A drainage system may require additional work depending on where collected water needs to go and how the installation affects the property.
Sump Pump Installation #
Interior basement French drains may require a sump pump to move collected water outside. Sump pump installation adds $650-$1,800 depending on pump selection and discharge routing. Interior drains involving concrete cutting and sump pump integration are covered in the Interior Basement French Drain Costs section above.
Battery backup systems add $300-$600 and can keep a sump pump operating during a power outage. For rental properties, this can provide additional protection during storms and pump outages.
French drains also need an appropriate discharge destination, which can include storm drains, dry wells, or rain gardens depending on the property and local requirements. Dry well installation adds $800-$2,500 depending on size, soil conditions, and project requirements.
Landscaping Repair #
Outdoor trenching can disrupt lawns, gardens, and hardscaping. Budget $500-$2,000 for sod replacement, plant restoration, and surface repairs after installation.
Breasy handles landscaping restoration as part of turnover and maintenance services. Learn about lawn services that can address post-construction areas.
French Drain Maintenance Costs #
French drains require maintenance to keep drainage paths and discharge points clear. The amount and frequency of maintenance depend on the system, site conditions, and the amount of sediment or debris entering the drainage system.
When debris blocks outlet grates or soil erosion covers discharge points, a system can back up and allow water to accumulate. Routine property maintenance can help identify these issues before they cause damage.
DIY vs Professional French Drain Installation #
The itemized DIY costs below total $330-$685 for the listed materials, equipment rental, fittings, and discharge items for a basic 50-foot installation. Your time and any additional site-specific materials would be extra.
DIY Cost Breakdown #
| Item | Cost |
| Perforated pipe (50 ft) | $25-$75 |
| Gravel (2-3 cubic yards) | $75-$150 |
| Filter fabric | $30-$60 |
| Trenching tool rental | $150-$300/day |
| Fittings and discharge | $50-$100 |
| Total | $330-$685 |
A basic installation can also require 8-16 hours of labor. Trenching is physically demanding, and a proper slope requires careful measurement.
When to Hire a Professional #
DIY may be suitable for shallow yard drainage in accessible areas with cooperative soil. Deep excavation near foundations, concrete cutting for interior drains, or unknown utility locations requires more careful planning and professional execution.
Breasy also handles drainage remediation when an existing drainage installation has not adequately addressed the property’s water problem.
What to Expect from Quote to Completion #
Knowing the expected timeline helps you plan around tenant schedules, inspections, and property availability.
How Long Installation Takes #
| Project Type | Typical Duration |
| Shallow yard drain (50 ft) | 1 day |
| Deep exterior drain (100 ft) | 1-2 days |
| Interior basement drain (50 ft) | 2-3 days |
| Full perimeter system | 3-5 days |
Weather can affect outdoor work. Interior basement drains are not weather-dependent but can create more disruption through noise, dust, and access restrictions.
Getting Accurate Quotes #
Accurate quotes require enough information to assess the property’s conditions and project scope. Site assessments can identify soil, access, drainage, and other details that a phone estimate may not capture. When comparing quotes, make sure you are comparing the same scope of work.
When you submit a drainage request to Breasy, we provide a quote within 48 hours based on property details and photos. Jobs are completed within 5 business days of approval, and Breasy’s onsite service personnel are insured and background-checked.
Frequently Asked Questions #
How much does a French drain cost per foot? #
Breasy’s 2026 project ranges put many French drain installations between $25 and $85 per linear foot. Interior basement systems can range from $70-$150 per linear foot because they may involve concrete cutting, basement access, and sump pump work.
Is a French drain worth the investment? #
The answer depends on the drainage problem, site conditions, and installation scope. Exterior systems can address water around a foundation when exterior access is viable, while interior systems can be used when exterior excavation is not practical. A site-specific assessment can determine which approach fits the property.
Do French drains require a permit? #
Permit requirements vary by municipality and project. Some jurisdictions require permits or inspections for drainage work, particularly when the system connects to stormwater infrastructure or affects property lines. Check the requirements for the property before work begins.
How long do French drains last? #
French drains last 25–40 years when built with PVC pipe, quality filter fabric, and correct slope engineering. PVC pipe doesn’t degrade, but gravel compacts over time and fabric can clog—pipe type, fabric quality, and slope are the three variables that determine whether a system reaches the high end of that range.
Can French drains be installed in winter? #
Outdoor installation can be affected by weather and site conditions. Interior basement drainage work is not weather-dependent, although it can create more noise, dust, and access restrictions while the work is underway.
What is a French drain? #
A French drain is a sloped trench with a perforated pipe wrapped in gravel that carries water away from a foundation or low spot in the yard instead of letting it pool or seep inside.
When do I need a French drain? #
You typically need a French drain when water is collecting where it shouldn’t, and you need to redirect it away from a building, yard, driveway, or other area.
Common signs include:
- Standing water: Water remains in your yard or around your foundation after rain.
- Wet or soggy soil: A section of your property stays saturated even after surrounding areas have dried.
- Basement or crawl-space moisture: Water is seeping through walls or floors, particularly when the problem is related to groundwater or poor drainage.
- Foundation water problems: You notice dampness, staining, or water intrusion along foundation walls.
- A sloped property sends water toward your home: Rainwater naturally flows toward the foundation instead of away from it.
- Downspouts discharge too close to the house: A French drain can sometimes help carry that water farther away, provided the system is designed appropriately.
- Retaining-wall drainage: Water building up behind a retaining wall can create hydrostatic pressure; drainage can help relieve it.
A French drain isn’t automatically the right solution for every drainage problem. Surface runoff may be better handled with grading, swales, gutters, or catch basins, while a French drain is primarily useful for subsurface water and controlled drainage through a perforated pipe surrounded by drainage material.
Who installs a French drain? #
Breasy handles French drain installation directly for properties in its 12 service markets, from the initial site assessment through the completion photos.
How deep should a French drain be? #
Shallow yard drains sit 8 to 12 inches deep, while deep footing drains and interior basement systems run 18 to 24 inches, close to the foundation footing itself.
What’s the difference between a French drain and a sump pump? #
A French drain moves water away from a problem area before it collects. At the same time, a sump pump removes water that has already gathered in a pit or basin, and interior basement systems almost always pair the two together rather than choosing one over the other.
Still unsure which drain type fits your property’s problem?
Breasy’s field team assesses your site and recommends the right solution.
TALK TO A DRAINAGE EXPERTGet Your French Drain Quote #
Submit your drainage request through your existing property management system. Breasy integrates with AppFolio and Buildium and manages scheduling, execution, and documentation, with same-day completion photos before any invoice goes out.
