Evaluating Backyard Drainage Issues Before Buying a Home

Potential buyer sees waterlogged spots in winter (20°F, should be frozen). Concern: spring/seep vs. runoff.

Diagnose the Water Source

• Moving water in freezing temps = spring/seep or broken pipe. Probe soil: soft to 3–4 ft = major issue.
• Runoff would be frozen. Check uphill for drainage paths.

Fix Options

1. Regrade to move surface water away (kill sod, re-sod = $ thousands).
2. French drain grid (parallel lines 6 ft apart → trunk line → outlet). $1.5k–$10k.

Legal Warning

Diverting natural flow onto neighbor's property is illegal. Berms must not trap their water.

Buy Decision

Unless price is far below market, walk away. Many homes don't have hidden hydrology problems.