House Excavation

To be verified whilst construction work is underway and prior to paying subcontractors

• Check that the excavator has called info-excavation: 1-800-663-9228
• Identify electric cables, gas pipeline, hydrant, streetlamps, etc.
• Check that boundary markings are in place. 
• Advise the operator of the depth to which to dig
• Organize a descent to enable the tractor to spread out the stone
• Verify that the goods and services comply with Municipality regulations
• Identify the water shut-off valve and length
• Check water shut-off valve equipment
• Position the culvert as per instructions (if necessary)
• Check location of the ducts within the foundations
• Check water-tightness of the water valve connection
• Check water-tightness of connections to sewer ducts
• Check that gravel fully covers the drain and flanges (At least 8'') 
• Check that the depth of the excavation corresponds to reference point: Centre of the street, curb or other
• Check that soil is not reworked for the footings (Carry out soil testing) 
• Check installation of the geotextile membrane if requested

To be included in the contract

• Mass excavation as indicated in plans (elevations, foundation and ground floor level)
• Excavation of trenches, curbs and entrance to garage.
• Foundation backfill using excavated earth.
• Removal of earth and compaction from the garage (if necessary)
• Provide and install: (tradesmen’s entrance)
• Water inflow. Storm sewer. Sewerage. French drain.
• Provide, install and compact (if necessary):
• Gravel 0-2 1/2 & 0-3/4" at the garage entrance and curbs.
• Gravel 3/4" BD certified sub-slab and filling for the French drain.
• Sand or 3/4" net needed for garage backfill.
• Transportation of surplus material.

Practical tips

If compaction sand is needed for the foundations, it is important to get the compaction rate approved by a specialized firm..

Make sure that the street is cleaned once the excavator contractor has finished his work. Towns are often intransigent in this regard and you could well receive fines.

It is practical to have the electric trench dug (if an underground entry) at the same time as the foundation backfill. This will avoid you having to order an additional digger and will minimize your transport costs.