French Drains and Subsurface Drainage Wollongong

French Drains for Groundwater and Landscaping Drainage

Waterlogged lawns, rising damp, and persistently wet soil can damage landscaping and place long-term stress on building foundations. These problems are usually caused by groundwater that sits below the surface with nowhere to escape. The most effective solution is a properly designed subsurface drainage system, most commonly a French drain.

At CS Plumbing and Drainage Services, we specialise in French drains and subsurface water control systems across Wollongong and the Illawarra. With more than 35 years of drainage experience, we design and install custom solutions that redirect groundwater safely away from your property, keeping lawns dry, footings protected, and structures stable over time.

What Is a French Drain?

A French drain is a gravel-filled trench containing a perforated pipe wrapped in permeable fabric. This system collects groundwater and redirects it away from problem areas before it can pool, rise, or cause structural issues. Read more about how french drains work in backyards

The pipe is installed on a controlled fall and discharges into a compliant outlet such as a stormwater system, drainage pit, or approved dispersal zone.

French drains are a long-term solution for:

• Wet or boggy lawns that never dry out
• Rising damp in walls or footings
• Water pressure behind retaining walls
• Pooling water along driveways and paved areas
• Damp subfloors and basement spaces

Our French Drain Services

When Is Excavation or Pipe Replacement Required?

In some cases, groundwater problems are made worse by failing drainage infrastructure. French drains often work alongside deeper drainage repairs when issues such as these are present:

• Repeated blockages despite jetting or relining
• Cracked or collapsed drainage pipes found on CCTV inspection
• Ground movement or subsidence affecting pipe alignment
• Ongoing tree root intrusion in older earthenware lines
• Undersized or poorly laid original drainage systems

Where required, we carry out full drainage excavation and pipe replacement to restore proper flow and prevent recurring issues.

Why Wollongong Locals Trust CS Plumbing for Drainage Work

• Licensed Drainage Specialists: We are equipped for excavation, trenching, and large-scale drainage works, not just basic plumbing repairs.
• Council and Code Compliant: All drainage systems are installed to NSW plumbing codes and Wollongong City Council requirements, with documentation where required.
• Accurate Diagnostics: CCTV inspections and flow assessments allow us to identify issues precisely and avoid unnecessary disruption.
• Long-Term Solutions: We correct gradients, upgrade materials, and install preventative systems so problems do not return.
• Emergency Drainage Support: We provide 24/7 emergency plumbing and drainage services across Wollongong when urgent issues arise.

Contact Wollongong’s French Drain Specialists

If your property suffers from soggy lawns, rising damp, or persistent pooling water, a French drain may be the right solution. Our licensed drainage team designs and installs systems that protect your home, improve usability, and deliver peace of mind during heavy rainfall.Get in touch with CS Plumbing and Drainage Services to arrange an inspection.

Get in touch with CS Plumbing & Drainage Services