Question
Hi Jeff,
I am writing on behalf of my nan, she's having huge drainage problems in her garden. After the recent downpour of rain, her garden flooded up to about 8inches. She has lived in the property for 50 years and ths is only the 3rd time it has flooded so badly (the last time being about 15 years ago). After speaking to the council, she found out that the house had been built on marsh land. Her property is also a little lower than the surrounding houses. There has also been some extension work done on a property about 500 yards away- this may have exaserbated the problem.
We worry that as the house is built on marsh land, can a drainage system really help? Is this going to mean a huge job? Is there anything we can do ourselves to lessen the flooding? There's a worry that if it should rain heavier the water will enter her house. Any ideas??

Answer
No doubt about it, it is a bad situation that you are in there.  In my area it is illegal for any neighbor to construct a project that will result in runoff from their property going to a neighbor.  But if the legal system is of no help, your best bet is to divert the runoff away from your property.  And the water needs to go somewhere, so your need a place to divert it to.  Your best bet is to contact a local contractor who knows drainage for some advice.  Every situation is different, and it sounds to me like you need some expert guidance.