Getting Rid of Standing Water in Your Lawn

If your lawn holds water after every rainfall, you are not alone. Standing water is one of the most common drainage complaints from homeowners across the GTA. The causes range from simple grading issues to blocked drainage infrastructure.

Common Causes of Standing Water

• Poor grading: The ground slopes toward your house or pools in low spots instead of draining away
• Compacted soil: Heavy clay soils common in the GTA absorb water very slowly
• Blocked catch basins: If your property has catch basins, clogs prevent water from draining
• High water table: In some GTA areas, the water table sits close to the surface
• Inadequate drainage: The property may lack sufficient drainage infrastructure

Solutions That Work

The right solution depends on the cause. For clogged catch basins, professional vacuum truck cleaning restores drainage immediately. For grading issues, regrading the affected area to direct water toward catch basins or swales is the most effective long-term fix.

French drains, dry wells, and sump pumps are additional options for properties with persistent water table issues or inadequate existing drainage.

When to Call a Professional

If standing water appears near your foundation, persists for more than 24 hours after rain, or has gotten worse over time, professional assessment is recommended. Water near foundations can cause structural damage and basement flooding.