An excavating contractor is your best bet when conducting landscaping work. However, finding the right contractor can be daunting for most homeowners. Below is an extract with intricate details on how to vet your excavating contractor.
Ask For A Portfolio
Excavating works can be pretty hazardous. Therefore, ask your contractor for their portfolio to establish their competence in the trade. Typically, consider contractors experienced in conducting various excavation works on different terrains. Does your contractor have accreditation from professional associations or homeowners organisations? They guarantee that the contractor offers high-quality services to their clients. You must also ascertain that your preferred excavation contractor has government permits and licences to conduct excavation work in your locality.
Inquire About Safety Protocols
Safety is a vital concern when conducting excavation work. Therefore, ask your excavation contractor about their safety protocols. Below are some safety procedures to consider when excavating;
- The professional must consider geological surveys to determine the soil structure at the site. For instance, the contractor could need special equipment to break metamorphic rocks.
- The contractor must conduct a pre-excavation assessment to determine the location of utility lines on the property. If possible, they should disconnect utility lines to prevent damage during excavation.
- The contractor should have high-quality and well-maintained equipment to conduct the excavation works. As a rule, the contractor should draft excavation plans to ensure the excavation crew is well aware of the sequence in which to perform the excavations.
- All personnel at the site must have safety gear, including boots, helmets, and reflective jackets.
- The contractor must barricade the site and install safety signage to warn people about risks such as slippery surfaces and pits. Moreover, the contractor should have a traffic management plan to prevent vehicle accidents at the excavation site.
Assess Their Conditions And Pricing
Ask the contractor about their conditions of engagement. Depending on your project's scope, the contractor might need to meet with other professionals, such as your building contractor or architect. It is especially so when you intend to build a structure at the excavation site. The contractor could also ask you to inform your neighbours and strata organisation about the planned excavation work. Remember, the heavy equipment at the site could cause neighbourhood disruptions. You must also ensure that the contractor has adequate insurance coverage. Finally, examine their pricing and explore cost-cutting mechanisms. For instance, the contractor could work longer hours to complete the project on time.
For more information, contact an excavating contractor near you.