WatertightHub
Boston, MA

French Drain Installation Cost in Boston

$1,800 – $7,650

Average french drain installation cost in Boston · avg $4,750

  • Updated 2026
  • 12 local pros
  • Based on local project data
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At a glance · Boston
Typical timeline
1–2 days
Permit
Usually required · ~$210
Local soil
glacial till and clay
Freeze-thaw cycles
58 / yr
Local pros
12 available

French Drain Installation cost in Boston, MA

Perimeter drainage that channels groundwater away from the foundation before it gets in. Below is how it compares with related foundation and drainage work in Boston.

Service in BostonLowAverageHigh
Basement Waterproofing$2,750$6,050$9,300
Foundation Repair$2,600$6,500$10,350
Crawl Space Encapsulation$3,550$6,900$10,200
French Drain InstallationThis page$1,800$4,750$7,650
Sump Pump Installation$750$1,800$2,800

Ranges reflect local labor and glacial till and clay soil conditions. Your quote depends on square footage, access, and severity.

What affects the cost in Boston

Annual rainfall
48"
Freeze-thaw cycles / yr
58
Frost depth
50"

In Boston, poorly draining glacial soils keep the ground saturated against basement walls, while deep winter frost heaves and cracks foundations over time.

Permits in Boston

Exterior drainage and structural repairs are permitted work here; interior sealing and sump-pump installs frequently are not.

Issuing authority: City of Boston Permits & Inspections Office · typical fee ~$210

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French Drain Installation in Boston: FAQ

How much does french drain installation cost in Boston?+

In Boston, french drain installation typically runs $1,800–$7,650, averaging about $4,750. The glacial till and clay soil and 58 freeze-thaw cycles a year are the biggest local price drivers.

Do I need a permit for french drain installation in Boston?+

Exterior drainage and structural repairs are permitted work here; interior sealing and sump-pump installs frequently are not. Permits are handled by City of Boston Permits & Inspections Office, with a typical fee around $210.

Is french drain installation worth it in Boston?+

With 48" of annual rainfall and a 50" frost depth, untreated water intrusion in Boston tends to worsen each freeze-thaw season, so most homeowners find addressing it early is far cheaper than structural repair later.