One of the most obvious signs of a drainage problem is water pooling in your yard after a rainstorm or snowmelt. If you notice persistent puddles that take hours—or even days—to disappear, your yard isn’t draining properly. In Ontario, where heavy rainfall and rapid snowmelt are common, this could point to compacted soil, poor grading, or a clogged drainage system. Left unchecked, this standing water can seep into your basement or damage your lawn.

Do certain areas of your yard feel perpetually soggy, even when it hasn’t rained recently? This is a red flag that water isn’t moving away from your property as it should. In regions like the GTA or Niagara, where clay-heavy soil is prevalent, water can struggle to percolate through the ground. Soggy patches might also indicate a hidden issue, like a blocked French drain or a downspout that’s dumping water too close to your foundation.

Have you noticed gullies, exposed roots, or bare patches where soil has washed away? Erosion is a common symptom of poor drainage, especially on sloped properties or near downspouts. In rural Ontario, where heavy runoff from fields or hills can overwhelm yards, this issue is trending as a major concern. If water is carving paths through your yard, it’s a sign that it’s not being directed to a safe outlet—and it could eventually undermine your landscaping or foundation.

Water that doesn’t drain away from your home often finds its way to the lowest point: your basement. If you’ve spotted cracks in your foundation, damp walls, or a musty smell downstairs, your yard’s drainage could be to blame. In cities like London or Waterloo, where wet basements are a hot topic among homeowners, this issue often ties back to improper grading or downspouts that aren’t extended far enough from the house. Ignoring this sign could lead to costly repairs.

Catch basins—those curbside grates or yard drains—are a key part of Ontario’s drainage infrastructure, especially in urban areas like Edmonton or Toronto. If you notice water backing up around them during a storm, or if they’re filled with debris like leaves and twigs, they’re not doing their job. This is a trending issue as homeowners report flooded yards and streets due to neglected or overwhelmed drainage systems. A blocked catch basin can turn a manageable rain into a mini flood on your property.

Spotting these signs early can save you from bigger headaches down the road. Calling a local drainage expert might be your best bet, especially given Ontario’s unique soil and weather challenges.

Your yard is your first line of defense against water damage, so don’t ignore the warning signs. Whether you’re in a rural area dealing with runoff or an urban spot battling stormwater, addressing drainage issues now can keep your property dry and safe all year round. Have you noticed any of these signs in your yard? Let’s keep the conversation going—fill out our request form below for a free assessment.