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Top French Drain Installation Pros in Metro Detroit
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French drain installation in Metro Detroit: what to expect
A French drain is a gravel-filled trench with perforated pipe that collects groundwater and surface water and carries it away. In Metro Detroit clay, water sits instead of soaking in, so soggy yards and water pooling against the foundation are common after storms and snowmelt.
A good design starts with where the water comes from and where it can legally go. The pipe needs steady slope to an outlet such as a dry well, daylight point or sump, and should never be aimed at a neighbor. Downspout extensions and regrading may solve part of the problem at lower effort.
For drains at the footing itself, see exterior drain tile. Broader yard work is covered under drainage solutions.
What a proper job includes
- A site review of slopes, wet spots and downspouts
- MISS DIG 811 locate request before digging
- Trench with filter fabric, washed stone and perforated pipe
- Consistent slope to a planned outlet
- Cleanouts or inspection ports for future maintenance
- Backfill, sod or seed repair and cleanup
What drives the price
- Trench length and depth
- Outlet type: daylight, dry well, sump or other approved outlet
- Obstacles such as trees, fences, patios and utilities
- Hand digging where equipment cannot reach
- Pipe and fabric quality
- Lawn and landscape restoration
Rebuild Detroit does not publish price ranges. Get written quotes for the same scope and compare.
Permits and licensing in Michigan
Many French drains need no building permit, but local rules on where drainage may discharge vary by city, and some communities require review. Confirm with your local building or engineering department (BSEED in Detroit). Detroit's water department advises routing downspout water onto grass or a garden bed, not onto pavement or toward a neighboring house.
Michigan requires a free MISS DIG 811 request at least 3 business days before any digging. Excavation is a licensed Maintenance and Alteration trade; check the contractor on the LARA lookup.
Verify: LARA license lookup MISS DIG 811 for homeowners Detroit BSEED How We Vet
How to compare quotes
- Ask where the water will go and confirm the outlet is allowed where you live.
- Compare trench depth, pipe type, fabric and stone in each quote.
- Check the license on the LARA lookup and ask for proof of insurance.
- Confirm who calls MISS DIG 811 and what lawn restoration is included.
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French Drain Installation FAQ
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