Introduction
The Gold Coast and South East Queensland experience some of Australia’s heaviest and most unpredictable rainfall. Combined with sandy soils, clay pockets and ageing infrastructure, it’s no surprise that many homeowners and businesses deal with recurring drainage problems.
At HITZ Drainage Contractors, we’ve seen the full range of stormwater failures — and most of them are preventable.
Here are the most common causes of drainage issues on the Gold Coast, and what you can do to avoid costly repairs.
1. Heavy Rainfall & Localised Flooding
South East QLD storms often drop a month’s worth of rain in hours. When stormwater systems aren’t designed for this volume, water backs up, causing:
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Flooding around homes
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Driveway pooling
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Erosion
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Water entering garages and lower levels
Prevention:
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Install larger-capacity stormwater pipes
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Add additional pits and inlets
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Upgrade old clay pipes to PVC
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Ensure all pits are cleaned before storm season
2. Poor Soil Drainage / Sand & Clay Mix
Gold Coast soils vary drastically — sandy coastal areas drain too quickly, while clay-heavy suburbs trap water. Both cause issues like:
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Sinking paving
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Waterlogged lawns
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Foundation movement
Prevention:
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Use proper pipe bedding
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Install ag drainage systems
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Regrade surface areas for proper fall
3. Tree Root Intrusion
Large native trees and palms commonly break into stormwater pipes looking for moisture.
Signs include:
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Gurgling drains
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Slow stormwater flow
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Overflow during rain
Prevention:
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CCTV inspection every 12–24 months
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Replacing older pipes
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Installing root barriers
4. Incorrect Drainage Design
Many older Gold Coast homes were built before modern stormwater guidelines existed. Poor original design leads to:
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No surface drains
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Inadequate fall in pipes
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Undersized stormwater lines
Prevention:
A professional drainage assessment with correct engineering design.
5. Blocked or Damaged Stormwater Pits
Leaves, soil, landscaping debris, and construction waste easily block pits.
Prevention:
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Quarterly cleaning
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Upgraded pit grates
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Adding sediment traps
Conclusion
Handling drainage issues early prevents damage to your property and saves thousands in repairs.
If you notice flooding, pooling water, or slow drainage, HITZ Drainage Contractors can inspect, diagnose, and repair stormwater systems anywhere on the Gold Coast, Brisbane and SE QLD.
