Moderate for experienced DIYers with proper equipment and a thorough understanding of code requirements; generally recommended for professional installation due to the critical nature of waterproofing, foundation integrity, and potential for complex excavation.
Installation involves excavation, proper grading, plumbing connections, and potential electrical work for a sump pump, requiring coordination of multiple trades and adherence to specific code sections for drainage and discharge. Challenges include proper pipe slope and aggregate placement for effective long-term operation.
Project Guidelines & Rules
General Requirements & Permitting
3 Rules
Permits and Approvals
IRC R105.1; Consult your local municipality for specific permit requirements, applicable fees, and plan review processes prior to commencement of work.
Site Plan Submission
IRC R106.1; A detailed site plan may be required, indicating proposed drainage routes, discharge locations, and existing structures.
Compliance with Local Ordinances
All work must comply with local municipal stormwater management ordinances, floodplain regulations, and erosion control measures.
Materials Specifications
5 Rules
Drain Tile Pipe
IRC R405.1, Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1320(a); Minimum 4-inch diameter, perforated (rigid or corrugated PVC/polyethylene) meeting ASTM F405, ASTM F891, or ASTM D2729 standards.
Clean Aggregates (Gravel Backfill)
IRC R405.1; Washed, clean, graded gravel (e.g., 3/4 inch to 1 inch size) meeting ASTM C33 requirements, free of fines and organic matter.
Filter Fabric (Geotextile)
IRC R405.1; Non-woven, permeable geotextile fabric designed to prevent soil migration into the drain tile system while allowing water passage.
Sump Pit (Basin)
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1320(c), IRC R405.2; Durable, corrosion-resistant material (e.g., polyethylene, fiberglass), minimum 18-inch diameter and 24-inch depth, with an airtight and structurally sound cover.
Sump Pump
IRC R405.2, Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1320(c); Automatic operation with float switch, permanently wired, equipped with an anti-siphon hole or air gap, and a full-flow check valve on the discharge line.
Installation - General Principles
4 Rules
Slope Requirements
IRC R405.1, Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1320(b); Drain tile must be installed with a minimum uniform slope of 1/8 inch per foot (1%) towards the sump pit or approved discharge point.
Placement Relative to Footing
IRC R405.1; Drain tile shall be installed at or below the elevation of the bottom of the footing. For interior systems, typically 2-4 inches below the top of the footing. For exterior systems, adjacent to the footing.
Gravel Envelope and Filter Fabric
IRC R405.1; The drain tile must be fully enveloped by a minimum of 4-6 inches of clean aggregates below and above the pipe. The entire gravel envelope and pipe shall be wrapped in filter fabric to prevent silt intrusion.
Connection to Sump Pit
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1320(c); Drain tile must terminate into an approved sump pit, ensuring proper inlet connections below the 'on' level of the float switch.
Sump Pump System & Discharge
5 Rules
Sump Pump Electrical Supply
NEC 210.8(A)(6), NEC 210.11(C)(3); A dedicated 15-amp or 20-amp branch circuit is generally required. Receptacles serving the sump pump in unfinished basements shall be GFCI protected.
Discharge Location
IRC R405.2, Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1320(d); Discharge to an approved stormwater management system, dry well, or directed to grade a minimum of 10 feet from the foundation and 20 feet from property lines, ensuring water flows away from structures and adjacent properties. **Discharge into the sanitary sewer system is strictly prohibited.** Consult your local municipality for specific setback requirements.
Protection from Freezing
DuPage County Climate Considerations; Discharge pipes must be sized, sloped, and installed to prevent freezing. Exposed pipes may require insulation or deeper burial (minimum 42 inches below grade for permanent burial) to prevent damage during winter months.
Anti-Recirculation
IRC R405.2; The discharge pipe shall be routed and terminated in a manner that prevents discharged water from re-entering the drain tile system or otherwise undermining the foundation.
Backup Power (Recommendation)
DuPage County Best Practice; Installation of a battery backup sump pump system or provisions for a generator connection is strongly recommended to ensure drainage system functionality during power outages.
Inspections and Final Approval
4 Rules
Foundation Drainage Inspection
IRC R109.1.1; Required after the drain tile, gravel envelope, and any foundation waterproofing/damp-proofing are installed, and before any backfilling or concrete slab pouring. The system's slope and connections will be verified.
Rough-In Plumbing Inspection
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.120; May be required for the sump pit and discharge piping prior to concealment.
Final Plumbing Inspection
Illinois Plumbing Code 890.120, IRC R109.1.3; Required after the sump pump and all associated discharge piping are fully installed, operational, and connected to an approved discharge point.
Electrical Inspection
NEC 110.3, IRC R109.1.3; If new electrical work is performed for the sump pump, an electrical inspection will be required to verify compliance with the 2023 NEC.
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