★★★★★
“Meet Matt Millitello, a true craftsman. Knowledgeable, efficient, and reasonable. Thanks to his team, we now can call our house a home.”
Rob M.
Sewer repair & plumbing
Stormwater Drainage
Catch basins, drainage systems, and grading that fix yard flooding for good.
Serving Erie County, NYFree, Written Estimates
Yard Drainage Experts. Not Landscapers Who Dabble.
Response speed
Most stormwater drainage installations take 2-4 days depending on system complexity
Licensed & insured
Fully Licensed & Insured
Why Erie County Calls Millie
Local excavation and underground utility work, handled by the crew that owns the equipment.
5.0★
Google Rating
19
Google Reviews
2019
Serving Erie County Since
100%
Licensed & Insured
✓
Excavation Specialists, Not Generalists
We dig, repair, install, backfill, and clean up. Excavation and utility work is not a side service here.
✓
We Own Our Equipment
No waiting on a subcontracted excavation crew. Millie brings the machines and runs the job.
✓
Yard Put Back Together
After the repair or install, we backfill, grade, and leave the area ready for seed or final landscaping.
✓
Erie County Soil and Permits
Clay soil, older sewer laterals, high water tables, 42-inch frost depth, and town inspections are normal work for us.
✓Fully Licensed
✓Fully Insured
✓Free Estimates
✓Local Family Business
✓Serving Erie County Since 2019
Is This An Emergency?
Check any items that apply. If you're experiencing an emergency, call immediately.
Do I Need Stormwater Drainage?
Check 2+ items to see if you need our services. Not sure? Call for a free consultation.
Do You Need Stormwater Drainage?
Common signs to look for:
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Standing water in your yard for more than 24 hours after rain
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Water flowing toward your foundation instead of away from it
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Flooded or damp basement during or after heavy rain
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Muddy, soggy lawn areas that never fully dry out
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Erosion channels forming in your yard from running water
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Ice buildup near your foundation from poor drainage in winter
The Millie Difference
Why Hire Excavation Experts for Yard Drainage?
Stormwater drainage requires proper excavation, grading, and underground pipe installation. Skills that define our daily work. Here's why excavation specialists outperform landscapers and general contractors on drainage projects:
We Dig For A Living
Drainage installation requires trenching, grading, and catch basin excavation. This is what we do every day, not a side service we dabble in. Our crews are skilled in proper slope calculation, pipe bedding, and compacted backfill that ensures your system works for decades.
Own The Right Equipment
We own trenching machines, mini excavators, and full-size excavators: no renting, no subcontractors, no markup. This means faster scheduling, better pricing, and crews who know their equipment inside and out.
Understand WNY Soil Conditions
Erie County's heavy clay soil doesn't absorb water: approaches that work elsewhere fail here. We design systems that collect and convey water away rather than trying to make it soak into clay. Years of local experience means we know what works.
Permanent Systems, Not Band-Aids
Landscapers often install surface-level fixes that fail in heavy rain. We install properly engineered systems with correct slope, adequate pipe sizing, and appropriate discharge points. Our solutions handle the worst storms Erie County can throw at them.
What Stormwater Drainage Problems Do We Solve?
What This Work Looks Like
Real job photos from the kind of sewer, water, drainage, and excavation work we do across Erie County.
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Two green PVC sewers in narrow Buffalo duplex trench by foundation
Poor Yard Grading
Many Erie County properties were graded improperly during construction or have settled over time, creating slopes that direct water toward the foundation instead of away. This causes basement flooding, foundation moisture, and soggy yards. We re-grade affected areas to create positive drainage away from your home, install catch basins in low spots, and create swales or underground drainage to convey water to safe discharge points. Proper grading is the foundation of good drainage.
Overwhelmed Surface Drainage
During heavy rain or rapid snowmelt, some yards simply can't handle the volume of water. Low areas become ponds, water runs across driveways, and erosion damages landscaping. We install catch basin systems at strategic collection points, connect them with underground drainage pipes, and direct water to the storm sewer or other approved discharge. This infrastructure handles heavy flow without surface flooding, protecting your property during even the worst storms.
Clay Soil Saturation
Erie County's heavy clay soil has poor drainage characteristics. Water sits on the surface rather than soaking in, creating perpetually wet conditions. Surface solutions alone won't work - the water needs to be collected and conveyed away. We install catch basins to collect surface water, underground pipes to carry it away, and dry wells or storm sewer connections for final discharge. This approach works with the soil conditions rather than fighting them.
Driveway and Hardscape Drainage
Paved areas concentrate water flow, often directing it toward garages, foundations, or creating ice hazards in winter. We install channel drains or catch basins at critical points like garage aprons, driveway low spots, and patio edges. Underground piping carries collected water away to prevent flooding and ice buildup. Proper hardscape drainage protects your foundation, prevents slippery conditions, and eliminates the water problems that paved areas can create.
Why Choose Us for Stormwater Drainage?
✓
Excavation Experts
We dig for a living: trenchers, excavators, proper equipment for the job
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Clay Soil Systems
Systems designed for Erie County's challenging heavy clay soil
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Permanent Fix
Properly engineered slope and discharge, not temporary patches
✓
Complete Restoration
Your yard restored to better condition after installation
Local Conditions
Stormwater Challenges in Western New York
Erie County gets heavy rain and has clay soil that doesn't drain. That combination floods yards.
Heavy Clay Soil
Challenge
Erie County clay doesn't absorb water. Rain and snowmelt sit on the surface, creating standing water and saturated yards. Infiltration-based solutions simply don't work here.
Our Approach
We design collection and conveyance systems: catch basins, underground pipes, and proper discharge points that move water away rather than expecting it to soak in.
High Water Table
Challenge
Areas near Lake Erie, Buffalo River, and local creeks have high water tables. During wet seasons, the ground is already saturated and can't accept more water.
Our Approach
We account for water table in our designs, using appropriate discharge methods and ensuring systems function even when groundwater is high.
Lake Effect Precipitation
Challenge
WNY receives intense rain events and heavy snowfall. Lake effect weather dumps significant precipitation in short periods, overwhelming inadequate drainage.
Our Approach
We size systems for heavy flow, not average conditions. Proper pipe diameter, multiple collection points, and adequate discharge capacity handle the worst storms.
Older Neighborhood Grading
Challenge
Many Erie County properties were graded toward the foundation during original construction, or have settled over time to create negative drainage.
Our Approach
We correct grading issues as part of drainage installation, ensuring water flows away from your foundation as it should have from the start.
Permits for Stormwater Drainage
Most residential yard drainage projects in Erie County don't require permits, but some situations do. We advise you on requirements and handle coordination when permits are needed.
- Simple yard drainage (catch basins, grading, dry wells) usually doesn't require permits
- Connecting to municipal storm sewers requires permits and inspections in most municipalities
- Large drainage projects affecting property lines or easements may need review
- Discharge to natural waterways may require environmental permits
- We contact Dig Safely NY (811) before any excavation to mark utilities
- For permitted work, we handle applications and schedule required inspections
How Does Stormwater Drainage Work?
Here's how it works.
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Case excavator and dump truck at commercial Erie County excavation site
1
Site Analysis
Evaluate water flow patterns on your property
2
Design Solution
Create custom drainage plan
3
Installation
Install catch basins, pipes, and grading
4
Testing
Verify proper water flow
5
Restoration
Restore landscaping and clean up
Ready to get started?
Schedule Your ProjectWhat to Expect
Here's how the project typically goes.
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Timeline
Most stormwater drainage installations take 2-4 days depending on system complexity. Simple catch basin installations can be done in 1-2 days, while larger systems with multiple collection points, extensive underground piping, and grading work require 3-4 days. We work efficiently but don't rush - proper installation with correct slope is critical for long-term performance.
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Disruption
Expect trenches across your yard where we install underground drainage pipes, excavated areas where catch basins are installed, and temporary disruption to landscaping. Equipment like excavators and trenchers will be on your property. There will be piles of excavated soil, some noise during working hours, and muddy conditions if weather is wet. We protect undisturbed areas and restore affected areas after installation. The temporary disruption is worth it for a permanently dry yard.
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Your Prep
Mark any underground utilities, irrigation systems, or private utility components in the work area. Remove or protect landscape features you want to preserve. Clear the path for equipment access. Consider where you want water discharged - we need a legal, appropriate discharge point. If drainage problems are weather-dependent, photos or videos of flooding during rain help us understand the issues. Note where water collects, which direction it flows, and problem areas.
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Communication
We start with a site visit during which we observe drainage patterns, identify problem areas, and discuss your concerns. We explain our recommended solution, where components will be installed, and where water will discharge. Before work begins, we review the plan and mark installation locations. During installation, we keep you updated on progress and any unexpected findings. After completion, we show you how the system works and explain any maintenance requirements.
Our Fleet
Equipment We Use
Our drainage installation equipment.
Trenching Machine
Creates clean, consistent trenches for drainage pipe installation. Much faster than hand-digging and produces better results for proper pipe bedding.
Best For
Underground pipe runs, efficient installation
Mini Excavator
Compact machine that fits through 36-inch gates for backyard access. Digs catch basin holes, removes soil, and handles tight-space grading work.
Best For
Catch basin installation, tight backyard access
Full-Size Excavator
Handles major grading projects, deep excavations, and large-scale drainage work. Essential for full property drainage systems.
Best For
Large grading projects, deep drainage systems
Laser Level System
Helps maintain the planned slope throughout the drainage system so gravity can move water toward the intended outlet.
Best For
Slope verification, proper drainage engineering
Compaction Equipment
Plate compactors and jumping jacks ensure proper backfill compaction. Prevents settling that causes future drainage problems or surface depressions.
Best For
Quality backfill, preventing settling
Stormwater Drainage FAQs
Improper grading, heavy clay soil, high water tables, or downspouts dumping water too close to your foundation are the most common causes in Erie County. We assess your specific property to identify the root cause and design a drainage solution that permanently redirects water: not just moves it around. Call (716) 253-1527 for a free evaluation.
A catch basin is an underground collection box with a grated top that captures surface water. A sump inside traps sediment before it can clog pipes, while an outlet directs water through underground piping to a safe discharge point: like a storm sewer, dry well, or drainage swale. They're ideal for low spots, driveways, and anywhere water pools.
Stormwater drainage pricing depends on the property layout, the water problem, the length of the run, materials, and restoration needs. We assess the site first, then provide a written quote based on the actual solution your property needs. Call (716) 253-1527 to schedule.
Collected water is directed to a municipal storm sewer, street gutter, dry well, drainage swale, or natural drainage course: depending on your property layout and local regulations. We ensure every discharge point is legal and won't create problems for neighbors.
Yes, but clay requires the right approach. Erie County's heavy clay doesn't absorb water, so infiltration-only solutions often fail. We design systems using catch basins and underground pipes that collect and convey water to a storm sewer or approved discharge point. Where some infiltration is possible, stone-filled dry wells provide temporary storage.
Surface drainage systems often solve or significantly reduce basement flooding by intercepting water before it reaches your foundation. We install catch basins, correct grading, and route downspouts underground away from the house. If groundwater is coming through walls or the floor, a French drain or interior system may be needed instead: we'll assess and recommend the right fix.
Proper slope ensures water flows by gravity without standing in pipes. Catch basins trap sediment before it enters the system. Just clean them out every few years. We use 4-6 inch pipes that resist clogging, install grates at collection points, and include cleanout access so future clogs can be cleared easily.
Simple yard drainage usually doesn't require permits in Erie County, but connecting to municipal storm sewers does. Larger projects or those affecting neighboring properties may also need permits. We know local requirements, advise you on what's needed, and handle the permitting process and inspections for permitted work.
What Our Customers Say
Real reviews from homeowners and businesses we've worked with across Erie County.
5.0-star reputation and real customer feedbackRead Google reviews
★★★★★
“Millie Excavating was extremely helpful and quick with communication and getting the problem solved. Very affordable and easy to work with.”
David C.
Sewer repair
★★★★★
“We got multiple estimates and these guys explained everything clearly, gave us a fair price, and did the work exactly as promised.”
Andrew M.
Sewer line repair
If the live review feed does not load on your device, use the Google reviews link above or call (716) 253-1527 and we'll walk you through recent project examples.
Why Does Stormwater Drainage Matter?
Proper stormwater drainage protects your most valuable investment - your home. Water directed away from your foundation prevents basement flooding, foundation cracks, and structural damage from hydrostatic pressure. Eliminating standing water creates a healthier, more usable yard and prevents mosquito breeding. Good drainage prevents erosion that damages landscaping and creates unsightly channels. In winter, proper drainage prevents ice buildup near walkways and foundations. Professional stormwater solutions solve problems permanently rather than just managing symptoms, adding value to your property and keeping your home dry during every rainstorm.
Stormwater Drainage help by service area
Find the nearby areas where Millie handles stormwater drainage along with related sewer, drainage, water line, and excavation work.
Millie serves communities across Erie County. Use the complete coverage hub to find your area.
View All Service Areas→Need Stormwater Drainage?
Tell us what is going on. We will look at the job, explain the work, and give you a clear price before digging starts.
(716) 253-1527