What to Know Before Starting an Excavation Project

What to Know Before Starting an Excavation Project

March 28, 2026

Whether you're breaking ground on a new building pad, running utility lines, or clearing a lot, excavation is one of those jobs that looks simple from the outside but can go sideways fast if you don't plan it right.

Get Your Permits Lined Up

Before any dirt moves, you need to make sure your permits and utility locates are handled. In the Permian Basin, that means calling 811 to get underground lines marked. Skipping this step isn't just risky — it's illegal and can shut your whole project down.

Know Your Soil

West Texas dirt isn't all the same. Some spots you hit caliche two feet down, other areas are soft sand that won't hold an edge. A good excavation contractor will know the ground conditions in your area and bring the right equipment for it.

Plan for Water and Drainage

Excavation changes how water moves across a site. If you don't think about drainage upfront, you'll be dealing with erosion, standing water, or worse — foundation problems down the road. We always grade with drainage in mind so you don't get surprised later.

Hire Someone Who Shows Up

The biggest complaint we hear from folks who've hired other outfits is simple: they didn't show up. At A&V Backhoe Services, we schedule it and we're there. Period. Our equipment is maintained, our crew knows what they're doing, and we don't leave a mess behind.

If you've got a project coming up, give us a call at (432) 530-7693 and we'll come take a look. Free estimates, no pressure.