10 Things To Ask A Residential Excavation Contractor

Key takeaways:

• Residential excavation is a big job, and there are a lot of things that can go wrong.
• Make sure you ask your contractor the right questions before work begins.
• Ask about the license, insurance, and experience.
• Make sure you understand the timeline, the communication method, and the scope of the project.
• Finally, ask about references and written estimates – then proceed with the final project contract.

Before you can put in a pool or build a new house, the ground needs to be prepped. The right equipment, knowledge, and skills are required for excavation to be done safely and successfully. Choosing a respectable excavation company is the best line of action, but how can you accomplish that?

Luckily, Dirt Werx LLC brings the ten questions you can ask a residential excavation company to choose the right one. Since every work is unique, make careful to go through the particulars of your project with your contractor. But these are a few basics that will help you get started.

What Is Residential Excavation?

Residential excavation is moving earth or rock from one location to another. It can also involve breaking up the ground to make moving easier. This work is typically done with large excavating machines called bulldozers. Still, hand tools may also be used by the contracting team in some cases.

Residential excavation is typically done for two reasons: to prepare a construction site or dig out a space for a new foundation. Excavation will probably be necessary if you intend to conduct any work on your house.

Things To Ask Your Excavation Contractor:

Question 01: Are You Licensed?

A company’s license proves that its employees are qualified to manage your project safely. It demonstrates that the contractors have the necessary training to operate any machinery safely.

Check with your state’s licensing board to confirm that the contractor you’re considering is properly licensed.

Question 02: What Is Your Experience with Excavation?

When it comes to excavation, experience is key. When excavating property, there are many factors and several potential problems. Different types of soil under the surface, such as muddy or sandy soil, run the danger of collapse. If damaged, buried electricity or gas lines can be fatal and cause significant damage.

An excavation contractor should be knowledgeable enough to manage every work component. They’ll know exactly what to watch out for and what safety precautions need to be taken. Ask them about similar projects they have completed in the past and request references from those clients.

Question 03: What Is the Scope of The Project?

Your contractor must know the project’s scope to get an accurate quote. This includes the size of the area to be excavated and the type of material that needs to be removed. The quote will also be based on whether or not you need the excavated material to be removed from your property.

Question 04: How Long Will the Project Take?

The length of time required to complete an excavation project will vary depending on the scope of the work. A small job may only take a day or two, while a larger project could take weeks or even months. Your excavation contractor must be able to provide you with a project timetable so you can make appropriate plans.

Question 05: What Type of Equipment Will Be Used?

The type of equipment used for your excavation will depend on the size and scope of the project. A small job may only require a Bobcat or other small excavator. In contrast, a larger project could require a full-size excavator. Your contractor should have the right equipment for the job and provide you with a list of the equipment that will be used.

Question 06: What Type of Insurance Do You Have?

All reputable excavation contractors should have liability insurance to protect themselves and their clients in case of an accident. Ask your residential excavation contractor about their insurance coverage and get a copy of their policy to review.

Question 07: Who Is Responsible for Permits?

In most cases, the excavation contractor will be responsible for obtaining the necessary permits. However, it’s important to verify this before hiring anyone. You don’t want to be on the hook for any fines or penalties associated with work done without a permit.

Question 08: Is Cleanup Included?

Ask your residential excavation contractor if cleanup is included in their quote. You don’t want to be in a big mess after the job is done.

Question 09: How Will You Communicate with Me During the Project?

You may have some ideas about how you would want to receive information about your project now that every kind of technological communication is at your fingertips. Your contractor probably likes to interact in a certain fashion as well. This might be through daily emails, cloud-based calendars, or even simple phone conversations. Make sure you are aware of the communication and informational methods used. If you prefer one format over another, let your contractor know.

It’s crucial to have this conversation upfront so that there are no surprises later on regarding how you will be informed about your project and expectations are handled from the beginning.

Question 10: What Are Your Payment Terms?

Be sure to ask about the payment terms before work begins. You don’t want to be surprised with a bill that you can’t afford to pay. Inform your contractor if your finances are tight so that they may work with you to develop a payment schedule that works for both of you.

It’s also important to find out if there are any discounts available. For example, some contractors may offer a discount if you pay the bill in full upfront. Also, get a written estimate so you have a record of what was agreed upon.

Ending Note:

Residential excavation can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. By asking your contractor the right questions, you can ensure that the job is done properly and according to your expectations.

Need an excavation contractor? Dirt Werx LLC, serving Bethlehem, can help!

We can do everything for the complete development of your site, including clearing the soil, grading with accuracy and finishing touches, demolition, excavation, and laying of underground utilities. Our professionals will perform any necessary site work on a schedule and within budget.

Get a free estimate today!

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