Excess water can do a lot of damage—to landscapes, to structures and to your reputation as a contractor. As more properties across Canada experience the effects of changing weather patterns and heavier rainfall, it’s no longer just a good idea to talk to your customers about drainage—it’s necessary.

For irrigation contractors, adding drainage services is more than an upsell—it’s an opportunity to better serve your customers, increase your revenue, and position your business as a go-to resource for outdoor water management. The best part? You already have many of the tools and skills needed to get the job done.

Why Drainage Matters

Poor drainage doesn’t just ruin lawns. It can lead to serious damage: soil erosion, foundation issues, flooded basements and failing irrigation systems. When you offer drainage solutions, you’re helping clients protect their investments—and save themselves from costly repairs down the line.

And this isn’t just a rural or southern issue. From British Columbia’s wet winters to spring thaws in Ontario and Quebec, excess water is a national concern.

Offering landscape drainage installation sets your business apart by positioning you as a one-stop shop for managing water both above and below ground. You’re not just installing systems—you’re delivering complete, integrated solutions. As municipalities across Canada, including the City of Toronto, begin to introduce stormwater management incentives, drainage services can become even more valuable. These programs offer potential financial benefits to homeowners, businesses, and contractors, making it a timely and strategic addition to your service offerings.

The Business Benefits of Drainage

1. Bigger ROI on Every Job

By adding drainage solutions to your quotes, you increase your per-project revenue without dramatically increasing your labour costs. Drainage products—from French drains to catch basins—are relatively straightforward to install when you already have excavation equipment on-site.

2. Maximize The Season

While both irrigation and drainage work pause during frozen ground conditions, drainage services can often resume earlier in the spring and extend later into the fall, depending on regional weather. And unlike irrigation, there is strong demand for drainage installation and repair during wet years, making it a valuable service to offer when rainfall is high. When the ground is workable, it’s go time—adding drainage helps you make the most of the season and keep your crews busy during peak conditions.

3. Stronger Customer Relationships

When customers know you can solve more than one problem, they’re more likely to come back—and to refer you to others. Whether they’re dealing with soggy lawns or water pooling near their foundation, they’ll appreciate that they only have to make one call. And with SiteOne’s training programs, you can build your team’s drainage knowledge and confidence, making it even easier to deliver reliable, professional results. As with each line of business, creating a drainage system maintenance program can also increase residual cash flow by keeping your services top of mind and encouraging ongoing customer engagement.

4. Stay Ahead of Regulations

Across Canada, many municipalities are introducing stricter regulations around stormwater runoff, particularly in urban and suburban areas. Requirements such as on-site stormwater retention—through solutions like storm chambers, dry wells, or soakaway pits—are becoming more common. Property owners need to comply with these evolving standards, and they’re looking for professionals who understand what’s required. By adding drainage services to your offerings, you can stay ahead of these changes and position your business as a knowledgeable, go-to partner for compliance and long-term water management solutions.

5. Low Barrier to Entry

If you’re already in irrigation, you likely have the tools, know-how and team to take on drainage projects. Learn how to expand your business beyond irrigation and tap into additional revenue streams.
For those new to the space, check out this helpful resource on how to identify and sell drainage services to your clients.

How to Get Started

Not sure where to begin? You’re not alone—and SiteOne® Landscape Supply is here to help. Our local branch associates know your region and can help you choose the right drainage solutions for your market and your clients.

Whether you’re looking for training, product recommendations or just need a second opinion, we’ve got your back.

Explore our full range of drainage solutions and get started today here.

Need local support? Find your nearest branch.