Excavation Cost Guide

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

1. Average Costs

| Cost Factor | Average Cost | |---------------------------|-------------------------------------| | Excavation Projects | $1,500–$6,300 | | Labor Costs | $120–$150 per hour | | Dirt Removal | $8–$25 per cubic yard | | Land Grading | $400–$6,500 | | Permits and Surveys | $50–$550 | | Equipment Rental | $100–$250 per hour (with operator) |

2. Common Excavation Projects

| Project | Cost Range | |---------------------------|-------------------------------------| | Basement Excavation | $5,000–$15,000 | | Pool Excavation | $400–$1,500 (can go up to $20,000 for rocky areas) | | Patio/Driveway Prep | $1,000–$2,500 | | New Construction | $1,500–$10,000 | | Land Clearing | $1,400–$5,800 | | Rock or Ledge Removal | $1,000–$20,000 | | Hillside Excavation | $1,000–$5,000 |

3. Factors That Affect Costs

a. Area Size and Accessibility

Smaller spaces or hard-to-reach areas increase costs.
Average: $1,500–$5,000

b. Soil Type

Loose soil is cheaper; rocky or clay-heavy soils cost more.
Adds $200–$1,200 to total cost.

c. Land Grading Needs

High to low leveling costs: $1–$12 per cubic yard.

d. Permits and Land Surveys

Permit: $50–$400
Survey: $400–$550

e. Soil Testing

Average: $700–$2,200
VOC testing: $200–$500

f. Dirt Hauling and Removal

$8–$25 per cubic yard, depending on accessibility.

g. Equipment Rentals

Smaller machines: $100–$250 per hour with operator.
Larger projects cost more but save time.

4. DIY vs. Hiring Professionals

DIY Costs

Mini excavator rental: $200–$700/day.
Professional land survey required: $400–$550.
Call 811 to avoid hitting utility lines.

Hiring a Pro

Recommended for complex tasks like foundation or hillside excavation.
Ensures safety and precise results, especially with heavy machinery.

5. Tips to Save Money

Bundle Projects
Combine multiple excavation needs (e.g., grading + clearing).
Choose Off-Season Work
Winter months are often cheaper in warmer climates.
DIY Simple Tasks
Perform minor tasks, like clearing shrubs, to cut contractor time.
Get Multiple Quotes
Interview 3+ contractors to find competitive pricing.
Stay Organized
Avoid project delays to reduce labor costs.

6. Safety Tips for DIY Excavation

Call 811: Check for buried utility lines.
Wear protective gear (e.g., gloves, hard hats).
Avoid overhead wires and steep slopes.

Excavation projects can transform your property but require careful planning to stay within budget. Hiring professionals ensures safety and efficiency, especially for large or complex jobs.