How to fix storm water drainage?

Question

I’ve been looking at a house and this is basically where the downpipes empty out to. It’s an old house and it looks like the plan was that they would empty into the alley way. The ground around it does feel wet. I’m just wondering if this is a dodgy arrangement and whether it could have done damage to the concrete slab that the house sits on? Which is located sort of to the left of those pipes

Dave-1 · Answer

Good Evening @Cat234

I agree with @Nailbag words, Tho seeing it from a bit different perspective. With the size of the roots and age of the pipes that we can see, if there was damage it would be showing up in the walls ect as something noticable. A lot of older style homes have downpipes that come down and then feed across the lawn/yard surface. My Grandma's place did exact

Nailbag · Answer

Hi @Cat234

It sounds like you're looking at a potential home to buy. If thats the case, then arranging for various specialty services to inspect and report on those concerns won't be straight forward as they will require the vendors approval. Your potentially better off getting a well researched building inspector to report on the entire property with a request to advice on the plumbing. I say "well researched" as I have little faith for the building inspector industry as their list of disclaimers is ridiculous as to what they can claim as "wasn't able to determine". So, research the reviews closely. Alternatively if the plumbing is your only real concern then get a licensed plumber to do the inspection as they will be far more qualified.

As a side note, if the water has always been draining away from the property and there is no visual internal/external signs of cracking in the walls, then its highly unlikely the slab is compromised.

Nailbag

EricL · Answer

Hello @Cat234

Thank you for sharing your question about your storm water drainage. Your gutters and downpipes would typically discharge into an approved stormwater system, such as underground stormwater pipes leading to the legal point of discharge, street drainage, a rainwater tank or an on-site system. The location of downpipes and the general stormwater arrangement may appear on the architectural/site plans, while the detailed underground pipe layout may instead be shown on a separate plumbing or drainage plan prepared for construction.

My first suggestion is to try and get a copy of the house plans along with the plumbing and drainage plans for the house. I then suggest engaging the services of a plumber to see if the drain pipes you currently have are in accordance with the plans. Your plumber can then offer recommendations if any of the drains need to be redirected or relocated. Please note that any changes that involve moving or reconfiguring pipework would be considered regulated plumbing work and would need to be carried out by a licensed plumber.

My next suggested consultation would be with a structural engineer. The structural engineer can carry out an assessment and see if the settling water near the base of your home has affected its foundation. Once they have finished with their assessment, they will then offer recommendations if anything needs to be done.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag, @TedBear, @Noyade and @DIY4Knuckleheds for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric