5 Essential Tips for Hiring the Right Utility Locating Service Provider

When it comes to construction projects, one of the most critical contributors to success is maintaining the integrity of underground utilities. One wrong dig and not only could you be looking at costly delays, but you could be dealing with significant and dangerous environmental issues. So, hiring a utility locating service provider is not the place where you want to take any risks. 

But how do you find an experienced, trusted, and reliable partner? We’re going to tell you how. Here are five key factors to consider when choosing the right utility locating service provider.

1. Proven Experience and Expertise
   Utility locating is an art, especially as cities across the U.S. confront aging underground utility systems that are becoming more fragile and more difficult to repair. So, the first thing to look for in a utility locating service provider is their experience and expertise in the field. An established company with years of experience, like NG Companies, will have a deep understanding of utility mapping technologies, industry standards, and safety protocols.Look for providers that have a proven track record of successfully completing projects similar to yours. They should also have a team of qualified professionals, including certified utility locators and engineers, who can accurately identify and map underground utilities. At NG Companies, we specialize in private utility locating so design and construction professionals can make informed decisions and avoid costly damages to their investments.
2. Advanced Technology and Equipment
   Modern utility locating relies heavily on advanced technology and equipment. A reputable provider invests in state-of-the-art tools like ground-penetrating radar (GPR), electromagnetic scanners, GIS integration, and utility mapping software. If they don’t use these tools and technologies, they’re not the provider for you. Precise detection and mapping of underground utilities reduces the risk of damage during excavation. 
3. Comprehensive Services
   Another important factor to consider is the range of services offered by the utility locating provider. They should offer comprehensive solutions that cover all aspects of utility locating, including utility mapping, verification, and documentation. This includes identifying the type, depth, and location of underground utilities like water pipes, gas lines, electrical cables, and telecommunications infrastructure. NG Companies offers a full suite of professional services that streamline the process and provide thorough coverage of all utility assets.
4. Safety and Compliance
   A proven safety record is a no-brainer, especially when it involves working with underground utilities. A reputable utility locating service provider should prioritize safety by adhering to strict safety standards and compliance regulations. They should have a safety management system in place, conduct regular safety training for their team, and provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Plus, they should be familiar with local regulations and obtain necessary permits before starting any job.
5. Reputation and References
   Finally, consider the reputation and references of the utility locating service provider. Look for reviews, testimonials, and case studies from past clients to gauge their performance and reliability. A solid provider will have a strong reputation in the industry. Ask for references and contact previous clients to ask about their experience working with the provider.

BONUS TIP! Turnkey Utility Protection

Make life easier for yourself. Combine utility locating with other services for full turnkey utility protection. NG Companies, in addition to being a trusted utility locating partner, offers additional subsurface management services to protect all your underground assets. With hydro excavation, we use a high-pressure water and vacuum system to liquefy soil and debris in order to safely work around sensitive underground infrastructure. We offer line jetting, which helps us discover any underground blockages that might halt your project or interfere with project safety. And with our video pipe inspection service, we’re able to zoom in on any damaged sections that require targeted maintenance or upgrades.

Hire a Utility Location Service Provider Who Does It All

Hiring a reliable utility locating service provider is crucial for the success and safety of your construction projects. And at the end of the day, you don’t want a company that can check one or two of these boxes. You want a provider who can check them all. That’s NG Companies. We have the experience, technology, safety record, reputation, and comprehensive services you need to ensure utility locating and excavation go off without a hitch. We’d love to earn your business. If you’re in the market for a top-notch utility locating service provider, let’s talk.

Discover how NG Companies takes utility locating to the next level.