What interior drain tile means
Interior drain tile is a perforated pipe set in a trench along the inside of the basement wall, under the floor, that collects water and carries it to a sump.
Also called perimeter drain, drain tile.
Where it matters on a waterproofing job
It means jackhammering a strip of floor, so set expectations about dust and patching. It pairs with a sump pump, and the pump and its discharge belong in the same quote.
What the model code says
- Drains are required around concrete or masonry foundations that retain earth and enclose habitable or usable space below grade. (IRC 2021, Chapter 4)
Check which code edition your building department enforces for interior drain tile before you quote.
What it costs
Koira's basement waterproofing cost guide puts a typical job at $5,000, with most between $2,450 to $8,200. The guide shows its sources and what moves the price. The basement waterproofing cost calculator prices a job line by line.
Work it out
- Free calculator: Basement waterproofing cost calculator
- Cost guide: Basement waterproofing cost
- Tools, templates and guides: Free waterproofing resources
Sources: 2021 International Residential Code, Chapter 4, Foundations (ICC). Checked October 9, 2026.