Fixing a Backyard Slope That Drains Toward the House

A backyard that slopes toward the house, levels off at the patio, and includes an above-ground pool with slow drainage creates widespread pooling after rain. The side and front yards are nearly flat, offering no natural outlet. The goal is to remove standing water without flooding adjacent areas.

Primary Solutions

• Regrade near the foundation: Establish a minimum 2% slope (¼ inch per foot) away from the house for at least 5–10 feet. This is the most direct fix.
• Catch basins and piping: Install box inlets at low points, connected to solid drain pipe that carries water to a suitable discharge (street, storm sewer, or lower yard).
• Swale or trench drain: If regrading creates enough slope, a shallow, grassed swale or a concrete trench drain can convey surface water.
• French drain / drywell: In permeable soil, a subsurface perforated pipe system (French drain) ending in a drywell (soakaway) can infiltrate water on-site.
• Cistern storage: Capture roof and surface runoff in an underground cistern for later irrigation use. This requires filtration (sand/charcoal) and disinfection (chlorine or UV) if water is used for pool top-off or potable needs.

Cistern Follow-Up

Plastic, concrete, or masonry cisterns are all viable. For irrigation, basic sediment filtration is usually sufficient. For pool use, add carbon filtration and UV or chlorine treatment to prevent algae and bacteria.

Key Requirement

Every option except a soakaway requires a legal, adequate outlet. Verify local regulations before connecting to storm sewers or discharging off-property.