Utility Locating Services: 5 Key Factors to Consider Before You Hire

When it comes to construction projects, one of the most critical factors for success is maintaining the integrity of underground utilities. One wrong dig can lead to costly delays—or worse, dangerous environmental issues. That’s why 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? Here are five key factors to consider when selecting utility locating services for your next job.

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 services rely 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

These technologies improve accuracy and reduce the risk of errors during excavation. If a provider isn’t investing in modern equipment (or doesn’t know how to use it effectively) they may not deliver the precision your project requires.

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 end-to-end utility locating services that streamline the process and give you full visibility of what’s below before you dig.

4. Safety and Compliance

A proven safety record is a no-brainer, especially when it involves working with underground utilities. Your utility locating services provider should have a formal safety program, regular team training, and documented compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. 

Make sure they: 

• Provide personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Obtain necessary permits
• Stay current with regional excavation laws
• Understand the various dangers posed by different types of underground utilities

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:

• Hydro excavation: Use of high-pressure water to liquefy soil and debris and a powerful vacuum system to safely remove it. Allowing for easy exposure of sensitive underground infrastructure. 
• Line jetting: Efficient cleaning of pipelines allowing for the best possible visibility into damage, cracks, and intrusions.  
• Video pipe inspection: Ability to visibly see 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.