Do you have a project in mind that requires major earthmoving work? Unless you have heavy machinery at your disposal, sooner or later you’ll need to hire an excavation contractor.
If you want to avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure the job is done right, you’ll need to take the time to compare the services offered by different excavation companies.
In this article, our experts provide 6 essential criteria to consider when choosing the best excavation contractor for your needs.
1. COMPARE OFFERS FROM SEVERAL EXCAVATION CONTRACTORS
Excavation is a broad field of expertise. Some companies and excavation contractors may specialize in a specific type of work, such as French drain repair or foundation waterproofing from the outside.
It’s also possible that some companies differentiate between residential excavation services and commercial excavation services.
When comparing excavation contractors, it’s important to prioritize those who specialize in the type of work you want to do on your property.
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2. ASK FOR REFERENCES AND FEEDBACK FROM PAST CLIENTS
Before making your decision, keep in mind that an excavation contractor has the advantage of being able to showcase only their best successes on their website. A beautiful result doesn’t always mean the budget and deadlines were respected, or that the business relationship was positive.
It’s in your interest to check a professional’s credibility with past clients.
Ideally, we recommend contacting recent clients. They may warn you against certain contractors or, on the contrary, strongly recommend one.
3. VERIFY THE LICENSES AND ACCREDITATIONS OF THE EXCAVATION CONTRACTORS YOU’RE CONSIDERING
In the construction industry, various licenses or accreditations can attest to a contractor’s seriousness and expertise. For example, in Quebec, a CCQ competency certificate and a specialized RBQ license for excavation and earthmoving contractors are required for certain jobs to be done legally.
To obtain a license from Quebec’s Régie du Bâtiment, an excavation contractor must meet specific requirements. Additionally, they must also pay a bond that could be used to compensate any client who suffers damage due to the failure or inadequate execution of excavation work.
While working with a licensed excavation company, guarantee you have a proper contract. This written contract outlines all the details of the work (start and end dates, materials, employees, cost, etc.) and protects you against potential damage.
4. TAKE A LOOK AT THE EQUIPMENT FLEET OF EXCAVATION COMPANIES
Some excavation companies are equipped for large-scale projects, while others have smaller, specialized equipment designed for precise excavation in urban areas. By looking at a company’s equipment fleet, you’ll quickly see the types of jobs they specialize in and whether they have the right tools to complete your work properly and in a reasonable time frame.
For example, when carrying out sewer and aqueduct repairs in a densely populated area, it’s preferable to use a smaller excavator. This way, the operator can move around the site without risking damage to the landscaping. There’s also less chance of damaging underground water pipes or cables.
On the other hand, if you’re planning to dig the basement of a multiplex or large building in Montreal, it’s better to hire a company with a broad range of heavy equipment.
5. REQUEST QUOTES FROM SEVERAL EXCAVATION CONTRACTORS
It’s important to keep in mind that the price and timelines for excavation work can vary depending on factors like the complexity of the project, the equipment required, or the distance from the site.
You’ll benefit from requesting quotes for your excavation work from several contractors to increase your chances of meeting your budget and timeline. If you can contact a company representative, that’s even better, as you can ask questions and make a more in-depth comparison.
Finally, beware of companies that offer an unusually low price. If the suggested price seems too good to be true, there may be a hidden catch.
6. REQUEST QUOTES FROM SEVERAL EXCAVATION CONTRACTORS
It’s important to keep in mind that the price and timelines for excavation work can vary depending on factors like the complexity of the project, the equipment required, or the distance from the site.
You’ll benefit from requesting quotes for your excavation work from several contractors to increase your chances of meeting your budget and timeline. If you can contact a company representative, that’s even better, as you can ask questions and make a more in-depth comparison.
Finally, beware of companies that offer an unusually low price. If the suggested price seems too good to be true, there may be a hidden catch.
COMPLETE YOUR PROJECT WITH PEACE OF MIND WITH EXCAVATION CHANTHIER
In conclusion, choosing the right excavation contractor shouldn’t be done hastily. If you want to get the best value for your money and achieve the results you expect, you’ll need to compare the service offerings of several companies. To make an informed decision, it’s crucial that you seek client testimonials, request certifications, and compare quotes.
At Excavation Chanthier, we’re so confident in our excavation services that we invite you to compare them with our competitors. No matter your project, our team guarantees your complete satisfaction.
Contact us today for more information on our excavation services and to start your project.