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  • Verified reviews icon56
    Verified excavation services reviews

Find Excavation pros in River Vale

Avatar for Castlton Environmental Contractors, LLC

Castlton Environmental Contractors, LLC

4.98(
56
)
Approved Pro

Castlton Environmental Contractors, LLC

4.98(
56
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 96% of Angi customers
Recommended by 96% of HomeAdvisor customers
21 years of experience

At Castlton Environmental Contractors, LLC, we are your premier choice for professional environmental response services. We have provided high quality work and friendly customer service for years. We take pride in our work. We work hard to provide the best service possible with integrity and accountability. We would love to help you. CEC is licensed to remove or abandon your Underground Storage Tanks (UST) in New York and New Jersey. We are licensed in ny and nj , as well as fully insured. Our trained professionals will assist you in properly decommissioning your UST in a manner that satisfies local and state regulations.Castlton Environmental Contractors LLC is ready, willing and able to provide 24/7, 365 days a year, emergency spill response of hazardous and non hazardous material. Give us a call today 1-800-25-tanks ! Rockland County license#H-09559

"I had an excellent experience with Castlton Environmental Contractors, LLC. From start to finish, they made the process smooth and stress-free. Bill and Jennifer handled all the permits and paperwork, which saved me a lot of time and hassle. The work was completed in a timely, efficient, and professional manner, and the crew left everything clean when they were done. I truly appreciate their clear communication and attention to detail?highly recommend!"

bar g on August 2025

At Castlton Environmental Contractors, LLC, we are your premier choice for professional environmental response services. We have provided high quality work and friendly customer service for years. We take pride in our work. We work hard to provide the best service possible with integrity and accountability. We would love to help you. CEC is licensed to remove or abandon your Underground Storage Tanks (UST) in New York and New Jersey. We are licensed in ny and nj , as well as fully insured. Our trained professionals will assist you in properly decommissioning your UST in a manner that satisfies local and state regulations.Castlton Environmental Contractors LLC is ready, willing and able to provide 24/7, 365 days a year, emergency spill response of hazardous and non hazardous material. Give us a call today 1-800-25-tanks ! Rockland County license#H-09559

"I had an excellent experience with Castlton Environmental Contractors, LLC. From start to finish, they made the process smooth and stress-free. Bill and Jennifer handled all the permits and paperwork, which saved me a lot of time and hassle. The work was completed in a timely, efficient, and professional manner, and the crew left everything clean when they were done. I truly appreciate their clear communication and attention to detail?highly recommend!"

bar g on August 2025


"Avoid this company at all costs. I hired them in Sept 2024 to replace oil tanks, and while they arrived on time, the installation was reckless?they cut through two floor joists instead of properly routing the fill line, compromising my home's structural integrity. They dismissed my concerns and promised a repair that never happened. Even if they had, it would only matter if it passed a home inspection. I?m now facing costly repairs, zero accountability, and the worst service I?ve ever experienced. Don't let Sal or his crew near your home."

Jeremy G on October 2025

Alternative Petroleum Services, LLC. We can take care of all your needs from removal, replacement, and installation of fuel tanks. With many years in the industry, you can expect professionalism and experience. Call today for a consultation.

"Avoid this company at all costs. I hired them in Sept 2024 to replace oil tanks, and while they arrived on time, the installation was reckless?they cut through two floor joists instead of properly routing the fill line, compromising my home's structural integrity. They dismissed my concerns and promised a repair that never happened. Even if they had, it would only matter if it passed a home inspection. I?m now facing costly repairs, zero accountability, and the worst service I?ve ever experienced. Don't let Sal or his crew near your home."

Jeremy G on October 2025


Avatar for Sterling Environmental Services, LLC

Sterling Environmental Services, LLC

4.74(
100
)
Approved Pro

Sterling Environmental Services, LLC

4.74(
100
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 92% of Angi customers
Recommended by 92% of HomeAdvisor customers
27 years of experience

It's true: A fuel tank will eventually corrode and leak. If you encounter a tank that is more than 15 years old, there is a good chance that substantial corrosion has taken place. Trust that Sterling will remove your tank with the utmost care for your property and will create a safe environment for your family. Call Sterling Environmental Services today!

"Sterlington Environmental removed my "ready to leak" 60 year old in-basement oil tank and replaced it with a clean, modern Roth tank in about half a day. This is an inherently messy job and they did it quickly and efficiently while paying attention to the rest of my home. The entrance to my basement is through the house and they laid down protective materials to protect my floors and were very careful not to damage anything or spill oil as they worked and moved materials, tools and supplies in and out of the basement. They also handled all the permitting and inspections. I hope to never have to do this again, but if I do, I will call Sterling to do the job. "

Richard H on October 2025

It's true: A fuel tank will eventually corrode and leak. If you encounter a tank that is more than 15 years old, there is a good chance that substantial corrosion has taken place. Trust that Sterling will remove your tank with the utmost care for your property and will create a safe environment for your family. Call Sterling Environmental Services today!

"Sterlington Environmental removed my "ready to leak" 60 year old in-basement oil tank and replaced it with a clean, modern Roth tank in about half a day. This is an inherently messy job and they did it quickly and efficiently while paying attention to the rest of my home. The entrance to my basement is through the house and they laid down protective materials to protect my floors and were very careful not to damage anything or spill oil as they worked and moved materials, tools and supplies in and out of the basement. They also handled all the permitting and inspections. I hope to never have to do this again, but if I do, I will call Sterling to do the job. "

Richard H on October 2025


Four Brothers Landscape, Inc.

4.88(
20
)
Approved Pro

Four Brothers Landscape, Inc.

4.88(
20
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
12 years of experience

Welcome to Four Brothers Landscape, Inc.! We always provide high quality work that produces an exceptional product. We pride ourselves on the relationships we build with all of our clients, and we can't wait to hear from you! Call today!

"My husband and I worked with Four Brothers Landscaping to complete a front, back, and side yard landscaping project in September 2021. Antonio - who runs the company and was our main point of contact - was absolutely wonderful to work with. He arrived on time for every appointment, communicated throughout every step of the project, navigated the tight timelines and complicated project flow we were working with (we were working against installation schedules for fencing and irrigation, and a massive chimney masonry project that popped up in the middle of the landscaping one), and made such helpful suggestions along the way. The crew was fantastic - so friendly, meticulous, quick, and left the workspace immaculate at the end of each day. Antonio's wife, who oversees a majority of the operations, was so wonderful to work with as well. It truly is a family operation run by honest, hard working people. Prior to connecting with Antonio for the project, we met with three other landscapers who either over complicated the details, or never followed up after our initial meeting. We feel so incredibly lucky to have found Four Brothers Landscaping as they completely transformed our property and went above and beyond in every aspect of the job. We enjoyed working with them so much and hope to have more projects with them in the future. Highly recommend!"

Jennifer M on December 2021

Welcome to Four Brothers Landscape, Inc.! We always provide high quality work that produces an exceptional product. We pride ourselves on the relationships we build with all of our clients, and we can't wait to hear from you! Call today!

"My husband and I worked with Four Brothers Landscaping to complete a front, back, and side yard landscaping project in September 2021. Antonio - who runs the company and was our main point of contact - was absolutely wonderful to work with. He arrived on time for every appointment, communicated throughout every step of the project, navigated the tight timelines and complicated project flow we were working with (we were working against installation schedules for fencing and irrigation, and a massive chimney masonry project that popped up in the middle of the landscaping one), and made such helpful suggestions along the way. The crew was fantastic - so friendly, meticulous, quick, and left the workspace immaculate at the end of each day. Antonio's wife, who oversees a majority of the operations, was so wonderful to work with as well. It truly is a family operation run by honest, hard working people. Prior to connecting with Antonio for the project, we met with three other landscapers who either over complicated the details, or never followed up after our initial meeting. We feel so incredibly lucky to have found Four Brothers Landscaping as they completely transformed our property and went above and beyond in every aspect of the job. We enjoyed working with them so much and hope to have more projects with them in the future. Highly recommend!"

Jennifer M on December 2021


Avatar for Breaking Ground Earthworks

Breaking Ground Earthworks

5.00(
7
)
Approved Pro

Breaking Ground Earthworks

5.00(
7
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
1 years of experience
Free onsite estimate

Serving Northeast New Jersey including Bergen County, Passaic County, Morris County and Orange County New York. At Breaking Ground Earthworks, we don’t just move dirt, we build the foundation for everything that follows. With a reputation built on integrity, we specialize in drainage, excavation, and landscape construction that transforms property and protects your investment. Family owned and operated, we bring precision, pride, and personal care to every project. Drainage systems that actually solve water problems. Excavation done right the first time, from trenching to full site work. Custom landscape construction grading, retaining walls, hardscape, and more. Whether it’s solving standing water issues, prepping for a new build, or bringing your yard to life, we’ve got the tools, the team, and the tenacity to break ground and raise standards.

"I had an outstanding experience working with Zach and Breaking Ground Earthworks! Zach handled a big job for us—removing old retaining walls, regrading the slope of our yard, prepping the area for new landscaping, and replacing an outdated drainage system. He also took care of a few stubborn stumps left behind from previous tree removals. His work was not only thorough and precise, but he was also professional, efficient, and clearly very experienced. The site was always left clean and organized, and communication throughout the project was excellent. I was impressed with the transformation and the quality of Zach’s work. Highly recommend him for any excavation or site prep needs—you’ll be in great hands!"

Seth P on August 2025

Serving Northeast New Jersey including Bergen County, Passaic County, Morris County and Orange County New York. At Breaking Ground Earthworks, we don’t just move dirt, we build the foundation for everything that follows. With a reputation built on integrity, we specialize in drainage, excavation, and landscape construction that transforms property and protects your investment. Family owned and operated, we bring precision, pride, and personal care to every project. Drainage systems that actually solve water problems. Excavation done right the first time, from trenching to full site work. Custom landscape construction grading, retaining walls, hardscape, and more. Whether it’s solving standing water issues, prepping for a new build, or bringing your yard to life, we’ve got the tools, the team, and the tenacity to break ground and raise standards.

"I had an outstanding experience working with Zach and Breaking Ground Earthworks! Zach handled a big job for us—removing old retaining walls, regrading the slope of our yard, prepping the area for new landscaping, and replacing an outdated drainage system. He also took care of a few stubborn stumps left behind from previous tree removals. His work was not only thorough and precise, but he was also professional, efficient, and clearly very experienced. The site was always left clean and organized, and communication throughout the project was excellent. I was impressed with the transformation and the quality of Zach’s work. Highly recommend him for any excavation or site prep needs—you’ll be in great hands!"

Seth P on August 2025


Avatar for M&L General Contractor

M&L General Contractor

5.00(
10
)
Approved Pro

M&L General Contractor

5.00(
10
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
5 years of experience

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service that we provide to meet the consumers' needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"More responsive & responsible than other construction companies I have worked with. Finished up, cleaned up nicely,"

Donna W on December 2023

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service that we provide to meet the consumers' needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"More responsive & responsible than other construction companies I have worked with. Finished up, cleaned up nicely,"

Donna W on December 2023


"Superb. Great contractor. Skilled in all areas of building construction, demolition, heavy equipment operation. Very nice guy. Hard working. Reasonable pricing."

Keith I on December 2023

Excavating land clearing old barn removal trenching demo foundation digging retaining walls and complete home renovations.

"Superb. Great contractor. Skilled in all areas of building construction, demolition, heavy equipment operation. Very nice guy. Hard working. Reasonable pricing."

Keith I on December 2023


Avatar for Sciacca General Contracting, LLC

Sciacca General Contracting, LLC

5.00(
4
)
Approved Pro

Sciacca General Contracting, LLC

5.00(
4
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
25 years of experience

Sciacca General Contracting, LLC, removes and replaces above and underground water and fuel tanks for residential properties, businesses, municipalities, gas stations, and apartment complexes. In addition to affecting homeowners and business owners, improper workmanship or materials could cause contaminants to migrate creating hazards of a larger proportion. Our team is professionally trained to handle any tank problems. We work affordably, efficiently, and honestly to provide a safe solution and a sound environment. We offer you the best service at affordable prices. TankmenofNJ.com

"We got multiple bids for this job and besides being the most economical they did an incredible job in a very timely manner. I highly recommend them if you need to have an underground oil tank removed. I was always kept aware of the progress of our project and Roseanne who I dealt with could not have been more professional, straight forward, and courteous."

Lewis R on April 2023

Sciacca General Contracting, LLC, removes and replaces above and underground water and fuel tanks for residential properties, businesses, municipalities, gas stations, and apartment complexes. In addition to affecting homeowners and business owners, improper workmanship or materials could cause contaminants to migrate creating hazards of a larger proportion. Our team is professionally trained to handle any tank problems. We work affordably, efficiently, and honestly to provide a safe solution and a sound environment. We offer you the best service at affordable prices. TankmenofNJ.com

"We got multiple bids for this job and besides being the most economical they did an incredible job in a very timely manner. I highly recommend them if you need to have an underground oil tank removed. I was always kept aware of the progress of our project and Roseanne who I dealt with could not have been more professional, straight forward, and courteous."

Lewis R on April 2023


Avatar for Pascack Valley Landscaping

Pascack Valley Landscaping

4.80(
10
)
Approved Pro

Pascack Valley Landscaping

4.80(
10
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
9 years of experience

Welcome to Pascack Valley Landscaping. We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade, and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"Great work, very professional"

Jen G on April 2025

Welcome to Pascack Valley Landscaping. We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade, and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"Great work, very professional"

Jen G on April 2025


Avatar for Mikula Contracting, Inc.

Mikula Contracting, Inc.

4.88(
20
)
Approved Pro

Mikula Contracting, Inc.

4.88(
20
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
79 years of experience

Mikula Contracting, Inc. has been serving New Jersey since 1946. Our experience and commitment to customer satisfaction for over 77 years is what sets us apart from the competition. Today, Mikula Contracting, Inc. maintains its unparalleled service to the construction industry. We are expanding our clientele and continuing to enhance our business every day. So give us a call today and let us help you with your project!

"This was a super experience!! Non stressful, helpful team. Highly skilled and completed the job with no difficulty whatsoever. I would highly recommend this company. Awesome !"

Barbara F on January 2023

Mikula Contracting, Inc. has been serving New Jersey since 1946. Our experience and commitment to customer satisfaction for over 77 years is what sets us apart from the competition. Today, Mikula Contracting, Inc. maintains its unparalleled service to the construction industry. We are expanding our clientele and continuing to enhance our business every day. So give us a call today and let us help you with your project!

"This was a super experience!! Non stressful, helpful team. Highly skilled and completed the job with no difficulty whatsoever. I would highly recommend this company. Awesome !"

Barbara F on January 2023

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Showing 1-10 of 523
Excavating questions, answered by experts

No, a ditch isn’t a trench. A ditch is an open, relatively shallow channel that’s carved out of the ground and used for drainage purposes. In contrast, a trench is a deeper excavation that’s entirely underground. Trenches have many uses, including gas lines, sewage systems, and electrical wiring. Unlike trenches, ditches don’t get filled back in with dirt after they’re dug.

You can bury underground electrical wire six inches deep—but only if you use a rigid metal electrical conduit. For rigid, non-metallic conduits, bury the wire at least 12 inches deep. If using an underground feeder cable rated for direct burial, you'll need to place it at least 18 inches deep, as it has no conduit for extra protection.

Prior to excavation, you should prepare the dig site and call 311 before you sign anything.

To get your site ready for excavation, you should move anything in the area that isn’t affixed to the land. You can save money on the excavation by removing hardscaping, including walkways, decks, concrete patios, and paver patios.

Before you carry out any digging, you should call 311 to confirm that there are no utility lines running through your excavation site. Skipping this step could lead to severe injury and property damage if your excavator hits a water, sewage, or gas line.

A perc test takes an average of around two hours, but it can range from one hour up to around six hours. Perc tests that require wider or deeper holes and those that require multiple holes dug throughout your property will take longer because there’s more excavation involved. The actual filling of the hole and monitoring to gauge the rate of percolation should take under an hour per hole.

Most states do not require excavation companies to hold specific licenses, but many require at least a contractor’s license. Additionally, heavy equipment operators require a special commercial equipment license to operate machinery required for excavation. You can use Angi’s contractor licensing tool to confirm that an excavation company you’re considering hiring is fully licensed. You should also make sure that the excavation team is fully insured before allowing them to work on your property.

The River Vale, NJ homeowners’ guide to excavation services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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