Standing water in your yard: causes and fixes

Why yards stay wet here

Flat ground, a high water table, heavy or compacted soil and clogged ditches or downspouts are common reasons water sits after rain.

Common fixes

Regrading to move water away, French drains, downspout extensions, dry creek beds and swales. The right fix depends on where the water comes from and where it can go.

When to be careful

Drainage that sends water onto a neighbor's property or against a foundation can cause problems. Larger work may need a permit or a licensed contractor.

Questions to ask

How will you handle where the water goes? Is this regrading, a drain or both? Do you need a permit? What is the warranty?

General information only, not professional advice. Greenway Lawn Quotes is a free quote-request service, not a landscaping company. Last updated October 13, 2026.

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