Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Excavation Contractor

Excavation is one of the first and most important steps in any construction project. Whether you’re preparing land for a new home, trenching for utilities, or building a commercial site, the quality of excavation work will determine the success of everything that follows.

But not all excavation contractors are the same. Choosing the wrong one can lead to costly mistakes, unsafe conditions, and delays. Before you sign a contract, it’s critical to ask the right questions — and know what answers to look for.

Here’s a guide to the most important questions you should ask before hiring an excavation contractor in Utah (or anywhere else).

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

The very first thing you should confirm is whether the contractor holds the proper licenses and insurance for excavation work in your area.

• Licensing proves the contractor meets local and state requirements.

• Insurance (liability + workers’ compensation) protects you from financial responsibility if an accident happens on your property.

Red flag: If a contractor avoids this question or says “we don’t need that,” move on immediately.

2. What Experience Do You Have with Projects Like Mine?

Excavation projects vary widely — from residential driveways to large commercial developments. You want a contractor who has completed projects similar in scope and complexity to yours.

Ask for examples or photos of past work. A reputable contractor should be able to share a project portfolio or at least a few job references.

3. What Equipment Do You Use?

Excavation requires the right tools for the job. Using outdated or undersized equipment can slow down a project, while the wrong machinery can damage your property.

A good excavation contractor should own or have access to:

• Excavators and backhoes

• Bulldozers and skid steers

• Hydro-vac or trenching equipment (if applicable)

• Trucks for hauling and disposal

Pro tip: The fact that a company invests in modern, well-maintained equipment is usually a sign of professionalism and reliability.

4. How Do You Handle Safety and Permits?

Excavation is dangerous work — especially when utilities are involved. A professional contractor should be able to explain their safety protocols and how they comply with OSHA regulations.

Ask questions like:

• Do you follow the “Call Before You Dig” 811 process in Utah?

• Who secures the necessary permits for excavation?

• What safety training does your crew have?

If a contractor downplays safety, consider it a major warning sign.

5. What’s the Estimated Timeline for My Project?

Delays in excavation can set back an entire construction schedule. That’s why you need a clear timeline up front.

Ask for:

• An estimated start and completion date

• What factors could cause delays (weather, permits, utility clearance)

• How they communicate if schedules change

A reliable contractor will give you realistic timelines — not just what you want to hear.

6. How Do You Price Projects?

Excavation costs can vary depending on soil conditions, equipment needs, and project complexity. Make sure you understand exactly how the contractor structures their pricing.

Important questions include:

• Is this a flat-rate or hourly estimate?

• Does the price include hauling away soil or debris?

• How do you handle unexpected issues (like hitting rock)?

Always get a written estimate before work begins.

7. Can You Provide References or Past Client Testimonials?

Nothing builds confidence like hearing from past clients. Ask for at least two or three references, ideally from projects similar to yours.

If the contractor has reviews on Google or social media, check them. Consistent positive feedback is a great sign.

8. Do You Offer a Warranty or Guarantee on Your Work?

Some excavation contractors stand by their work with a written guarantee. While not all companies offer warranties, it’s worth asking. At the very least, you want assurance that they’ll address any issues that arise shortly after completion.

9. What Areas Do You Serve?

Excavation is often priced with transportation in mind. Confirm that the contractor regularly works in your city or county. For example, if you’re in St. George or Salt Lake City, it’s best to choose a contractor already operating in those areas.

10. What Sets You Apart from Other Excavation Contractors?

Finally, give the contractor a chance to tell you what makes them different. Do they emphasize safety, own specialized equipment, have decades of experience, or offer fast turnaround times?

This question often reveals whether you’re talking to someone who views excavation as just a job, or as a professional service they take pride in.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

While asking these questions, stay alert for warning signs like:

• No license or insurance documentation

• Vague answers about safety or permits

• Pressure to sign a contract immediately

• Prices that seem too good to be true

• Lack of references or past project photos

Choosing the cheapest contractor often ends up costing far more in the long run.

Conclusion: Hire an Excavation Contractor You Can Trust

Excavation is the backbone of your project — and it’s too important to leave in the hands of an unqualified contractor. By asking the right questions, you’ll not only find out if a contractor is capable, but also if they’re reliable, safe, and professional.

At Team MTX, we encourage you to ask us these questions, and we’ll gladly provide honest answers. With years of experience in excavation, grading, trenching, and site preparation across Utah, we’ve built a reputation for quality and safety.

Contact us today for a free estimate and see why we’re the trusted excavation contractor in Utah.