Why You Need To Find Utilities Before a Construction Project
Starting a new construction project is an exciting venture, whether it’s a small backyard renovation or a large commercial build. Before breaking ground, however, one of the most critical preliminary steps is to identify and mark all underground utilities.
Overlooking this task can cause dangerous accidents, costly repairs, and significant project delays. In this guide, we’ll explain why you need to find utilities before a construction project and how to locate underground utilities.
Why Locating Utilities Matters
Taking the time to locate underground utilities is an essential part of a construction project’s worksite preparation. Knowing where buried utilities are before work begins verifies the safety of workers, achieves legal compliance, and protects against unexpected damage and costs.
Ensure On-Site Safety
Safety is always the priority on any construction site. Accidentally striking an underground utility line can have catastrophic consequences. Hitting a gas line could cause an explosion, while severing an electrical cable could lead to electrocution.
Even damaging a water or sewer line can create hazardous conditions and disrupt essential services for the surrounding community. Properly identifying these hidden dangers beforehand allows you to work around them safely and protect everyone on and near the job site.
Meet Legal Requirements
Another reason you need to find utilities before a construction project is that it’s a legal requirement. Federal and state laws mandate that you locate utilities before any excavation project.
These regulations exist to prevent the widespread service disruptions and public safety risks that can result from damaging underground infrastructure. Failing to comply with these legal obligations can cause substantial fines, legal liability for any damages, and an immediate halt to your project.
Prevent Future Expenses
Ignoring what lies beneath the surface can be an expensive mistake. The cost of repairing a damaged utility line falls on the party responsible for the excavation. These repairs can cost thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars.
Beyond the direct repair costs, unexpected damage causes lengthy project delays, which increase labor expenses and can harm your professional reputation. A small investment in utility location services at the outset can save you a fortune down the road.
How to Locate Utilities
The process for locating utilities is straightforward. Your first step should be to contact the national 811 “Call Before You Dig” service. This free service coordinates with public utility companies to mark their lines on your property.
However, 811 only locates public utilities. You should also determine if private utility locators are necessary for your project. These technicians will determine the location and depth of any private utilities near the worksite, including telecommunication lines, power lines, and more.
Build Smarter and Safer
Locating utilities is a foundational step for any construction project. It safeguards your team, guarantees legal compliance, and protects your finances from unforeseen expenses. By making utility location a standard part of your pre-construction checklist, you set your project up for a smooth, efficient, and successful outcome from the very beginning.
