Typical installed cost by length
These are typical ranges, not quotes. A contractor has to see the site.
French drain cost estimate by length
Based on $31 to $49 per linear foot:
| Length | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| 25 ft | $780 – $1,230 |
| 50 ft | $1,550 – $2,450 |
| 60 ft | $1,870 – $2,920 |
| 100 ft | $3,100 – $4,900 |
| 150 ft | $4,650 – $7,350 |
National guides quote wider ranges, up to $50 to $100 per foot, mostly for deeper drains and harder access.
What changes the price
- Depth. How deep a drain needs to be is the biggest factor. A shallow lawn drain is far cheaper than a 3 to 4 foot trench along a foundation. Clay is heavy and slow to dig, which shows up in labor.
- The outlet. Draining to a daylight point on your lot is cheapest. A curb outlet adds a sidewalk or curb cut and a city encroachment permit. A sump pump adds equipment and electrical work.
- Access. Narrow side yards often mean hand digging instead of a small excavator.
- What’s in the way. Removing and replacing concrete, pavers, decks or mature landscaping.
- Materials. Filter fabric, washed gravel, and solid vs. perforated pipe. Fabric is worth it in clay.
- Add-ons. Catch basins at low spots, downspout tie-ins, cleanouts.
- Permits and 811. 811 utility marking is free. Permit fees vary by scope.
How to compare quotes
Ask every contractor the same questions:
- How deep, and why that depth?
- Where will the water go?
- Fabric-wrapped gravel? What pipe?
- What slope, and how is it checked?
- Who handles permits?
- What’s the warranty, and what voids it?
- Is their California license active? (Check at cslb.ca.gov.)
A quote that’s much cheaper usually skips depth, fabric or a real outlet.
Cheaper fixes to try first
If roof water is the cause, gutters and downspout extensions often cost a few hundred dollars and may solve it. Water against the foundation →
Common questions
How much does a French drain cost per linear foot in Sunnyvale?
About $31 to $49 per linear foot is typical. Deeper drains and harder access cost more.
Is a French drain worth the money?
If water is collecting against your foundation or in your crawl space, usually yes. Water damage and foundation repair cost far more than drainage.
Does homeowners insurance pay for a French drain?
Often not, since drainage is usually treated as maintenance. Policies vary, so check yours.
How long does French drain installation take?
A typical residential run often takes a few days, longer with curb work or concrete removal.
Get a free estimate from a licensed French drain contractor →
Sources: Sunnyvale per-foot range from HomeBlue (May 2024); prices have likely risen since, so treat it as a floor. National range from HouseLogic.
Sunnyvale Drainage Help is a free referral service, not a contractor. Contractors pay us for referrals. How it works · Updated 2026-10-26