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Residential lot grading
It is important to grade your lot so that water flows away from your house but does not affect neighbouring properties.
As the property owner, you are responsible for your lot grading. You and your builder should read the City of Winnipeg Lot Grading By-Law before:
- deciding on the grading for a new house, or
- making changes to existing grading.
Surface drainage problems
Improper lot grading can cause poor surface drainage. Runoff from heavy rain or melting snow can result in:
- standing water,
- flooding,
- foundation settlement or damage, or
- basement dampness.
Direct surface drainage away from your foundation and especially from window wells.
If you, or your neighbours, are having drainage problems, there are several things you can do:
- Check your own surface drainage, and see our frequently asked questions (FAQ) for answers to your questions about common drainage problems.
- Talk to your neighbours if water is draining from their property onto yours. They may not realize there is a problem.
- Contact a professional, such as a professional engineer, Manitoba land surveyor or landscape architect.
If you continue to have runoff from a neighbouring property:
- contact 311,
- we will have a lot grading inspector contact you to discuss your concern,
- we will issue a by-law violation notice for infractions of the Lot Grading By-law,
- property owners are required to comply with the by-law.
A well-planned drainage system will leave your lot, and your neighbour's, free of standing water.