A good Twin Cities excavator writes down the scope, the plan for frost, access and restoration, files the Gopher State One Call ticket and can show current insurance. These checks apply to anyone you hire.
How do I find a reliable excavation contractor in the Twin Cities?
To find a reliable excavation contractor in the Twin Cities, read recent reviews from jobs in your area, ask for proof of insurance and get a written quote after a site visit. A contractor who knows Minneapolis will ask about the alley, the basement, frost depth and where the water goes. A firm number given over the phone, sight unseen, is a warning sign.
Does an excavation contractor need a Minnesota license and insurance?
Minnesota's Department of Labor and Industry lists excavation, trenching and grading as a special skill, and a contractor who offers only one special skill does not need the state residential building contractor license; one who offers more than one, working directly for a homeowner, does. Plumbing and electrical work must be done by licensed trades, septic systems by licensed SSTS professionals, and Minneapolis requires a licensed wrecking contractor for house demolition. On insurance, have the insurer send you the liability certificate and proof of workers' compensation directly.
What questions should I ask a Minneapolis excavator before hiring?
Before hiring, ask the excavator:
- Who files the Gopher State One Call ticket, and how will you find private lines?
- What happens if you hit limestone, boulders or an old foundation?
- Does the price include hauling, and where will the dirt go?
- Which permits are needed, including alley or street permits, and who pulls them?
- What erosion control goes in, and how will you keep the street clean?
- How will you protect the lawn, the boulevard and the trees?
- What does restoration include: topsoil, seed or sod?
How many quotes should a Twin Cities homeowner get?
A Twin Cities homeowner should get two or three written quotes for a sizable job, each covering the same scope. A bid that leaves out restoration or right-of-way work only looks cheaper.
What should the estimate include, and what should a Minnesota excavation contract say?
The estimate should include the dimensions and depth, soil volume, the plan for rock or buried debris, hauling, fill and compaction, erosion control, permits, restoration and the schedule. The contract should repeat all of it, set the payment schedule and say who fixes lawn, boulevard or driveway damage. Collect a lien waiver with each payment you make.
Should a quote for fill under a slab include compaction testing?
A quote for fill under a slab, a footing or a building pad should include compaction testing when the engineer or the city requires it, and say who books the lab and who pays. A lawn or a garden bed never needs that testing.
What deposit is reasonable for a Twin Cities excavation job?
A reasonable deposit is whatever your written contract sets, agreed before work starts. A modest deposit to hold the date is normal; paying most of the job up front is risky. Tie payments to work you can see.
What are the red flags with an excavation or land clearing contractor here?
These are red flags with any excavation or clearing contractor here:
- A firm number given before anyone has seen the lot.
- No written contract, or nothing about restoration or buried surprises.
- Asking for all the money in cash before starting.
- Claiming the 811 call or a permit can be skipped.
- No certificate of insurance on request.
- Offering to clear or fill near a wetland without checking the rules.
The contractor tore up my yard and won't come back. What can I do in Minnesota?
When a contractor won't come back to fix a torn-up yard, send a written request with photos, the contract and a deadline, and keep a copy. If that fails, you can contact the Minnesota Attorney General's Consumer Action Division, and conciliation court, Minnesota's small claims court, handles smaller money disputes. This is general information about Minnesota, not legal advice.
Will I get your price in writing before any work starts?
Yes. Call or text (612) 688-4650 to set up a site visit, and we send a written quote with the scope and the price. We work in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, Edina, St. Louis Park, Richfield, Plymouth, Minnetonka, Brooklyn Park, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie and Golden Valley.