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KNOW Before You Dig
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Foundation Repair Slab on Grade Begins Below the Surface
Foundation repair often requires cutting or drilling through a slab on grade foundation, yet buried utility infrastructure, sewer lines, embedded electrical, and post tension cables are frequently overlooked before work begins. This article outlines the investigation steps required before underpinning or polyurethane injection.
Feb 196 min read


Winter Private Utility Locating: What Clients Need to Know Before Ground Disturbance in Ontario
Winter private utility locating presents accuracy risks when snow hides surface features and utility paint markings disappear. Documentation becomes critical before ground disturbance begins.
Feb 194 min read


Some Places Matter More Than the Invoice. My Visit to an Animal Rescue Sanctuary in Texas
I was recently asked to visit a rural property near Decatur, Texas, to locate buried electrical cables before construction work began on a new barn for their animals. On the surface, it was a straightforward request. In reality, it turned into one of the most meaningful site visits I have had in my career. The property belongs to a non profit animal rescue, education and therapy sanctuary in Texas run by Brooks Trotter and Karen Renee. The ranch spans roughly 180 acres and is
Dec 31, 20252 min read


Why Utility Coordination Matters for Private Locates
Learn why utility coordination is essential before any private locate. Reduce risk, prevent delays, and ensure accurate buried utility infrastructure data on commercial sites.
Dec 5, 20253 min read


811 Private Utility Lines. Why a “CLEAR” 811 Response Can Mislead
811 Private Utility Lines. Why a “CLEAR” 811 Response Can Mislead
Nov 15, 20254 min read


When a Private Locate Becomes a Design Locate
When a Private Locate Becomes a Design Locate
Oct 24, 20253 min read


Gas Station Borehole Drilling Safety: Why Critical Zones Matter
Gas station borehole drilling poses unique risks due to underground storage tanks, bundled utilities, and non-conductive piping. Learn why critical zones matter and how to prevent costly damages.
Sep 2, 20254 min read


Critical Zones for Water & Sewer on Private Property
Learn how to identify Critical Zones for water and sewer on private property when lines cannot be confirmed. This guide shows how to protect homeowners, contractors, and landscapers from costly utility strikes.
Aug 13, 20253 min read


Understanding the Unlocatable: Navigating the Limits of Utility Locates
Not all utilities can be located with standard equipment. This case study shows a communication tower with cameras and speakers where the cables couldn’t be traced due to open-ended, unpowered lines and no termination access — a real example of why clear communication and Critical Zone planning are essential before excavation.
Aug 9, 20253 min read


Why Every Project Needs a Design Utility Locate: Know Before You Design
Design locates ensure underground utilities are identified before construction begins. Unlike free One Call services, Know Before You Design locates reveal privately owned lines and prevent costly redesigns, utility strikes, and project delays.
Jul 30, 20253 min read


Utility Locate Liability: Who’s Responsible for Missed Locates?
Who’s liable when a utility locate is missed? This post explains legal responsibility and how to reduce risk in public and private locate disputes.
Apr 2, 20251 min read


Utility Locate Risks & ASCE 38-22: Why Missing Information Increases Strikes
Missing records, poor access, or unavailable site personnel all increase the risk of utility strikes. This post explores how ASCE 38-22 helps reduce that risk.
Mar 11, 20254 min read


Utility Locating Texas: Know Before You Dig Locates LLC Now Open to Support Safe Excavation
Know Before You Dig Locates LLC is now open in Texas! Discover how our team protects excavation projects through expert utility locating and safety consulting.
May 10, 20242 min read
Industry insights, guidelines, and real-world lessons from the field
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