Those sloped gardens behind Brixton's terraced houses weren't designed for today's rainfall patterns. When water pools against your back wall or floods the basement steps, a properly engineered drainage system transforms sodden clay into usable outdoor space.
Response within 24 hours
Brixton's mix of heavy London clay and Victorian-era foundations creates particular drainage headaches. From the narrow gardens off Coldharbour Lane to the larger plots near Brockwell Park, standing water finds its way into places it shouldn't. French drains intercept this water before it becomes your problem, channeling it safely away through gravel-filled trenches and perforated pipework.
Installation begins with mapping your garden's natural water flow - crucial given how Brixton sits between two hills. Trenches run 60-90cm deep, lined with geotextile fabric to prevent clay infiltration. Perforated pipes sit in washed gravel, creating channels that collect groundwater across your entire plot. The system connects to soakaways or storm drains, depending on your property's setup and local water authority requirements.
Fifteen years working these South London streets means knowing which solutions actually last. Every installation carries detailed diagrams showing pipe routes and depths - invaluable when you're extending that kitchen or adding a garden office later.
Rated 4.9/5 from over 280 verified reviews
Standard Victorian terrace gardens (6-8m wide) usually fall between £2,800-£4,500, including excavation and materials. Larger corner plots or those needing multiple drain runs can reach £6,000-£8,000. Basement waterproofing adds complexity and cost.
Daily installations span from Brixton Water Lane to the Tulse Hill railway bridges. Regular projects in SW2's conservation areas and SW9's estate renovations, plus surrounding streets in Herne Hill and Brixton Hill.
Typical terrace gardens need 3-4 days from excavation to final landscaping restoration. Complex systems linking multiple low points or requiring deep excavation might stretch to a full week.
Each system includes decade-long coverage against blockages or settlement issues. Annual inspection reminders help catch potential problems early, while the installation documentation proves invaluable for insurance or property sales.
Modern perforated pipes handle 110mm rainfall per hour - well above even exceptional London storms. The key is proper gradient calculation and sufficient gravel surround to maintain flow rates during intense weather events.
Get your free, no-obligation quote today.