9 Questions to Ask Excavation & Demolition Before Hiring

Questions to Ask Excavation & Demolition

Updated November 6, 2026

What Should You Ask Excavation, Grading and Demolition Contractors?

Ask for the license number, insurance certificates and a written contract, then ask who runs the job, who pulls permits and what the warranty covers. For this trade, also ask: Who calls 811 to locate utilities before digging? Typical lead time is one to several weeks.

Updated November 6, 2026 · Source: construction.broker planning guide (our own assumptions, not survey data); always compare written bids.

The Questions

What is your license number, and which state or city issued it?
Can you send a current certificate of liability insurance and proof of workers’ compensation?
Will the contract list the scope, materials, price, start and finish dates and payment schedule?
Who pulls the permits, and are they included in the price?
Who will run the job day to day, and will you use subcontractors?
What warranty do you give on labor, in writing?
Who calls 811 to locate utilities before digging?
How do you handle spoil removal and erosion control?
Have you tested for asbestos or lead before demolition?

Good to Know

Call 811 or confirm your contractor has before anyone digs.
Demolition of older structures may need asbestos or lead testing.

Cost and Timing

As a planning figure, expect usually priced per job or machine hour; get a site visit. Typical lead time is one to several weeks. These are our own assumptions, so compare written bids.

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