Strip Drains

Strip drains—also known as channel drains, trench drains, linear drains, or Acco drains—are a popular solution for managing surface water runoff in New Zealand. You’ll often see them installed along driveways, car parks, loading bays, pool decks, and commercial forecourts, where they efficiently capture and direct water away from paved surfaces to prevent flooding and water damage.

Strip drains consist of a long, narrow channel set into the ground with a removable grate on top. As water flows across hard surfaces, it enters the channel through the grate and is directed into the stormwater system or a designated soakage area. This design helps prevent pooling, erosion, and slip hazards.

Regular maintenance is essential to keep strip drains functioning properly. Over time, leaves, silt, rubbish, and other debris can accumulate in the channel, leading to blockages and reduced drainage capacity. Neglecting maintenance can result in surface flooding, property damage, and non-compliance with council requirements.

At Dutton Stormwater, we provide expert strip drain maintenance services across New Zealand. Our team inspects, clears, and cleans channel drains to ensure your drainage system remains efficient, reliable, and compliant with local regulations.

Strip drains typically require maintenance every six to twelve months, depending on site conditions, surrounding vegetation, and debris loading. During each service, we assess the drain’s condition and includes a job summary with any recommendations in your service report.