Finding the hidden utility lines buried on your property before you start a building or renovation project that involves any type of digging or excavation is a step you don’t want to skip. The risks are simply too high. Not only could you damage a vital utility line, forcing you to stop your project and pay for repairs, but hitting the wrong utility line could also cause serious injury to anyone nearby. Hitting a gas line, for example, could trigger an explosion that could severely injure or even kill someone.
The good news is that locating buried utilities is a relatively easy and, in some cases, completely free process. Here are your two main options when it comes to utility locating services in Denver:
Public Utility Locating Service in Denver (The Free Option, with Limitations)
Utility companies are required to fund a utility locating service that is free to the public. Property owners and contractors can call 8-1-1 or visit colorado811.org to request service. The utility companies are required to respond within three business days. They will either send someone to mark the locations of their utility lines or let you know if there are no utility lines in the area you plan to disturb.
This free service is a great resource, but it may not be enough to ensure that no utility lines are hit during excavation. That’s because some properties have more than just public utility lines underground. They may also have private utility lines that the free service does not locate.
Private utility lines include lines that extend beyond utility meters, as well as septic lines, water lines coming from a well, gas lines running to a barbecue or fire pit, electrical lines running to auxiliary buildings, irrigation lines, and more. If you suspect that any of these lines are located on your property, you’ll need to bring in a private utility locating company to find them.
Private Utility Locating Services in Denver (The More Thorough Paid Option)
Private utility locating services in Denver have several advantages, with only one major downside: You have to pay for the service. The benefit is that private companies are often much more responsive than the 8-1-1 service. They can frequently come out within a day or two and scan the entire area in question at once, looking for both public and private utility lines.
Private utility locating services in Denver also tend to use more advanced equipment than the free service. They can often determine how deeply underground items are buried, something the free service does not provide, as well as identify the location of potential hazards more precisely so they can be avoided during excavation.
Choosing the Right Utility Locating Option
For some projects, starting with the free 8-1-1 service may be sufficient. However, if your property has private utility lines or your project involves extensive excavation, relying solely on the public service could leave important hazards unidentified. In these situations, the additional cost of private utility locating services in Denver can provide valuable peace of mind and help you avoid costly damage, delays, and safety risks.
