Foundations and site work
Understand the decisions beneath the finished building.
Study the ground
Site slope, drainage, access, and soil conditions can affect foundation design and excavation. Ask the qualified design team what information is needed from a survey or geotechnical investigation before treating a preliminary price as final.
Coordinate buried work
Confirm the route of utility connections, drainage, and any required underground work before excavation. Ask who coordinates utility marking, inspections, and protection of existing services. Keep a record of changes to the approved layout.
Know what gets inspected
Foundation and underground stages may have required inspection points before concrete is placed or work is buried. Get the actual sequence from the local authority and the project team, and keep written results.
Protect the long-term performance
Water movement around a building matters after construction. Discuss grading, waterproofing, site drainage, and the maintenance needed to keep water away from the structure.
Project checklist
- Confirm survey and site investigation needs.
- Coordinate underground utilities and drainage.
- Save required pre-cover inspection results.
Where to shop for materials → Permits and inspections → Budget worksheet →