Ask a Pro: How Can I Protect My Property During Excavation?

Excavation is the essential first step for many exciting home projects, from building an addition to installing a new septic system or pool.

However, the thought of heavy machinery digging on your property can be nerve-wracking. What about your beautiful lawn, your driveway, and most importantly, the complex network of pipes and utilities buried just out of sight?

This is a common and valid concern we hear at Bay Area Land Services. A successful excavation project isn’t just about moving dirt; it’s about doing it safely and smartly to protect your valuable property.

The Professional's Approach to Protection

The single most important factor in protecting your property is the contractor you hire. A good contractor will have plans to minimize property disturbance and avoid hitting critical utilities like pipes. This isn't just a talking point; it's a structured process that a professional and experienced company will follow every time.

Here’s what that process looks like and what you should expect from your excavation expert:

1. The "Call Before You Dig" Mandate

Before any digging begins, the first and most crucial step is to call 811, also known as "Miss Utility." This is a free service that notifies public utility companies (electric, gas, water, cable, phone) of the planned excavation. They will then send locators to mark the approximate location of their buried lines with flags or paint. Any reputable contractor will insist on this step and manage the process for you. It's not just a good idea—it's the law.

2. Identifying Private Lines

It's important to know that 811 only marks public utilities running to the meter. They will not locate private underground lines. This can include:

• Water and sewer lines from the house to a septic tank or well
• Underground sprinkler or irrigation systems
• Electrical lines running to a shed, garage, or landscape lighting
  
• Propane gas lines from a tank to the house
  
  

A professional contractor will have a detailed conversation with you about your property to identify these potential hazards. They may recommend hiring a private utility locator to precisely mark these lines, ensuring nothing is missed.

3. Strategic Planning and Communication

A pro doesn’t just show up and start digging. They will walk the property with you, developing a clear plan to:

• Establish a single entry and exit path for heavy equipment to minimize lawn damage.
• Use ground protection mats if necessary to shield lawns and driveways.
  
• Designate specific areas for excavated soil to be placed, keeping the rest of your property clean and accessible.
• Discuss sensitive areas you want to be protected, like mature trees, landscaping, or hardscaping.
  
  

4. Cautious and Precise Excavation

Once all lines are marked and the plan is set, the actual digging begins with care. When working near marked utility lines, a technique called "soft digging" or hand-digging is often used. The operator will carefully use a shovel to expose the utility line by hand, visually confirming its exact depth and location before bringing in the excavator. This simple, cautious step prevents costly and dangerous accidents.

Your Role as the Property Owner

You are a key partner in this process! To help ensure a smooth project, you can:

• Share your knowledge: Let your contractor know the location of any private lines you're aware of, especially your septic system and drain fields.
• Provide property plans: If you have a survey or "as-built" drawing of your home, share it. It can contain valuable information.
• Clear the area: Remove any personal items, vehicles, or obstacles from the designated work zone before the crew arrives.
  
  

Ultimately, the best way to protect your property during excavation is to hire a licensed, insured, and experienced contractor who makes safety and planning their top priorities. Don't be afraid to ask questions about their process for protecting your property—a true professional will have clear and confident answers.

This "Ask a Pro" article is brought to you by the experts at Bay Area Land Services Company. Serving Southern Maryland, Virginia, and D.C., we specialize in safe and efficient site preparation, excavation, land clearing, and more. If you have a project in mind, visit us at bayareasvc.com or call us for a consultation!