Planning a new landscaping project or installing a backyard pool is an exciting time for any homeowner. Before you break ground, there’s a critical step you must take to ensure safety and avoid costly damage: locating utilities. This guide will walk you through how to find all the underground utilities on your property for a safe and efficient project.
When You Need to Locate Utilities
Before we get into the how, when is it necessary to locate utilities? Many home improvements that require a permit will also require utility locating, such as outdoor landscaping renovations. Landscaping projects, such as planting trees or shrubs, can disrupt underground systems if proper precautions aren’t taken.
Installing irrigation systems, swimming pools, or even repairing a driveway may involve excavation that risks damaging critical utilities. Even seemingly minor projects that require digging can cause significant consequences without proper preparation.
Call Before You Dig: Understanding 811
Finding all the underground utilities on your property will first require calling 811. This federally mandated service connects you with local utility companies, who will mark the approximate location of their lines on your property. In Los Angeles, this service is free and simple to use. You can either call 811 or submit an online request a few days before you plan to dig.
Technicians will then visit your property and use flags or spray paint to mark the location of buried public utilities, such as gas, water, and electricity. This process is a legal requirement and protects you from liability for damaging public lines.
Private Utility Locators: When 811 Isn’t Enough
Along with calling 811, you also must determine if private utility locators are necessary for your project. Private utilities are lines that run from your utility meter to your home or to other structures on your property, such as a guesthouse or an outdoor lighting system. Examples include sprinkler systems, electrical lines to a detached garage, or a private septic system.
To find these, you will need to hire a private utility locator. These companies use advanced equipment, such as ground-penetrating radar, to accurately map all private lines. For homeowners in areas like Los Angeles, where properties often have custom landscaping or additional structures, hiring a private locator provides complete peace of mind.
Visual Clues: Signs of Underground Utilities
While you wait for professional locators, you can conduct a visual inspection of your property for clues. Look for visible markers such as manholes, utility boxes, or small flags from previous markings.
The location where utility lines enter your home can also give you a general idea of their path. While these visual cues are helpful, they are not a substitute for a professional survey. They can, however, provide a preliminary understanding of your property’s underground layout.
Ensure Safety and Prevent Damage
Taking the time to locate all underground utilities is a non-negotiable part of any digging project. Starting with the free 811 service and hiring a private locator for a comprehensive search will safeguard your family, your property, and your finances. By following these steps, you can proceed with your home improvement plans confidently, knowing you have taken the necessary precautions to prevent accidents and ensure the project’s success.
