Alright, so you've got a project brewing in Moses Lake that needs some dirt moved. Maybe it's a new foundation, a drainage issue, or you're finally putting in that shop you've always wanted. Whatever it is, you're going to need an excavator, and picking the right one can feel like a shot in the dark if you don't know what you're looking for. I've been doing this a long time here in Grant County, and I've seen the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. So, let me give you some straight talk on how to hire an excavating contractor without getting burned.
What to Ask Before They Even Touch a Shovel
When you're calling around, don't just ask for a price. That's a good way to get a lowball number that doubles by the time they're done. You need to dig a little deeper. Here are some questions I'd be asking:
- Are you licensed, bonded, and insured in Washington State? This isn't optional. Any legitimate contractor will have these. Ask for their license number and verify it with L&I. If they hem and haw, hang up.
- How long have you been doing excavating work specifically? A general contractor might do some excavating, but you want someone who specializes in it. They'll know the nuances, especially with our sandy, sometimes rocky soil out here in Moses Lake.
- Can you provide references from recent, similar projects? And actually call them! Ask about communication, timeliness, and if the project stayed on budget.
- What's your typical timeline for a project like mine? You want to know if they're realistic or just telling you what you want to hear.
- Who will be the main point of contact during the project? You don't want to play phone tag with three different people.
- What's your process for handling unexpected issues? Things happen. You hit a rock, find an old pipe, or the weather turns. A good contractor has a plan.
- Do you offer a warranty or guarantee on your work? Not all excavating work comes with a formal warranty, but they should stand behind their work.
Decoding the Quote: What to Look For
You've gotten a few quotes, now what? Don't just pick the cheapest one. That's a classic mistake. A good quote isn't just a number; it's a detailed breakdown. Here's what you should expect from a solid quote:
- Clear Scope of Work: It should explicitly state what they are and aren't doing.