Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring an Excavation Contractor in Hillsboro, OR

Excavation is the foundation of any construction project—literally. Whether you’re building a new home, installing a driveway, or upgrading your drainage system, hiring the right excavation contractor in Hillsboro, OR is essential. However, many homeowners make costly mistakes when choosing an excavation company, leading to delays, safety hazards, and budget overruns.

To help you avoid these pitfalls, here are the most common mistakes to avoid when hiring an excavation contractor in Hillsboro and surrounding areas.

1. Not Checking Licensing and Insurance

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is hiring an unlicensed or uninsured contractor. In Oregon, excavation contractors must have the proper licensing to operate legally. Without the right credentials, you risk shoddy work, potential legal issues, and liability for accidents.

What to Do Instead:

✅ Verify the contractor’s Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license here.
✅ Ensure they carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation to protect you from potential damages or injuries on your property.

2. Choosing Based on Price Alone

While it’s tempting to go with the lowest bid, excavation is one service where cheaper isn’t always better. A low-cost contractor might cut corners, use outdated equipment, or lack the necessary expertise, leading to costly rework later.

What to Do Instead:

✅ Get multiple quotes and compare services, not just prices.
✅ Look for a balance between affordability and experience.
✅ Ask about the quality of equipment and materials they use.

3. Failing to Get a Written Contract

Verbal agreements are a recipe for disputes. Without a detailed contract, you might end up paying unexpected fees or dealing with incomplete work.

What to Do Instead:

✅ Ensure the contract clearly outlines the scope of work, costs, timelines, and any potential additional charges.
✅ Confirm that the contract includes who is responsible for permits and site preparation.

4. Overlooking Experience with Hillsboro’s Soil and Terrain

Hillsboro’s soil composition varies, with areas of clay, silt, and rocky terrain that require specialized excavation techniques. Hiring a contractor unfamiliar with local conditions can lead to drainage issues, improper grading, or unstable foundations.

What to Do Instead:

✅ Choose a contractor with experience in Hillsboro and the surrounding Willamette Valley area.
✅ Ask for past project references that involve similar soil conditions.

5. Ignoring Customer Reviews and References

Many homeowners skip checking reviews and end up regretting it when they experience delays, hidden fees, or unprofessional behavior.

What to Do Instead:

✅ Check Google reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for complaints.
✅ Request references from past clients and ask about their experience with the contractor.

6. Not Confirming Permit Requirements

Certain excavation projects in Hillsboro require permits from the City of Hillsboro. If your contractor starts work without the proper approvals, you could face fines or project delays.

What to Do Instead:

✅ Verify with the contractor if permits are needed for your project.
✅ Check local regulations on the City of Hillsboro’s website.

7. Hiring a Contractor Without Proper Equipment

Excavation requires specialized machinery like backhoes, bulldozers, and trenchers. If a contractor lacks the right equipment, they may take longer to complete the job or produce subpar results.

What to Do Instead:

✅ Ask about the type of equipment they use and whether it’s well-maintained.
✅ Ensure they have the right tools for your specific project (e.g., trenching, grading, land clearing).

8. Failing to Discuss Cleanup and Disposal

Excavation creates a lot of debris, from dirt piles to rocks and tree roots. Some contractors leave the mess behind, resulting in unexpected cleanup costs for homeowners.

What to Do Instead:

✅ Clarify whether site cleanup and debris removal are included in the quote.
✅ Ask about disposal methods and landfill fees (if applicable).

9. Not Setting a Clear Timeline

Excavation is often the first step in a project, and delays can push back everything from foundation work to landscaping. Some contractors take on too many jobs at once, leaving your project stalled for weeks.

What to Do Instead:

✅ Get a clear start and completion date in writing.
✅ Ask how they handle delays due to weather or unforeseen site conditions.

10. Forgetting to Locate Underground Utilities

Digging without checking for underground utilities is dangerous and illegal. If a contractor damages water, gas, or electrical lines, it can result in expensive repairs and safety risks.

What to Do Instead:

✅ Call 811 to request a free utility location service before excavation begins.
✅ Confirm that your contractor follows Oregon Dig Laws for safety.

Final Thoughts

Hiring an excavation contractor in Hillsboro, OR, doesn’t have to be stressful—just avoid these common mistakes! By taking the time to research, verify credentials, and clarify project details, you’ll ensure a smooth and successful excavation process.

At Evolution Contractors, we specialize in residential excavation services, offering expert site preparation, grading, and trenching solutions tailored to Hillsboro’s unique landscape.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation!