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  • Verified reviews icon37
    Verified excavation services reviews

Top-Rated Excavation pros in Amherst - Updated Nov 2026

Avatar for Back Home and Yard Services
Back Home and Yard Services
5.0(
4
)
Excavation - Major Grading or ReslopingExcavation - Major Grading or Resloping - For BusinessLandscape - Minor Grading or Resloping

Serving Amherst, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I have had Jack and his crew do a couple of jobs for me, I found them to be professional, punctual, and work hard the whole time they are here. If you text Jack he gets back to you quickly. I will hire them again this year. I have been very happy with them and I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone."
Plantasia 2024
Plantasia 2024
Plantasia 2024
Response time11 hrs
Response rate87%
Recommended by80%of homeowners
Avatar for ZL Property Services
ZL Property Services
5.0(
3
)
Excavation - Major Grading or ReslopingLandscape - Minor Grading or ReslopingBuilding Site - Preparation and Clearing

Serving Amherst, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"I am extremely satisfied with the work ZL Property Services did for me! They did a pond and snow plowing for me. Their professionalism, quality of work, and attention to detail exceeded my expectations. They did an excellent job from start to finish, and I couldn?t be happier with the results. I would highly recommend ZL Property Services to anyone looking for reliable, high-quality work. I would and will absolutely use them again!"
Logo/recent projects
Logo/recent projects
Logo/recent projects
Logo/recent projects
Logo/recent projects

+11

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Excavating FAQs, answered by experts

In the United States, a depth of 36 inches (three feet) for underground water lines is the accepted industry standard. This depth varies from location to location based on local conditions. In areas with colder winters, they may be buried deeper to prevent frozen well water pipes : This is usually at least six inches below the frost level. The International Plumbing Code calls for a minimum of 12 inches below grade.

There is no standard depth for burying a septic tank; they are typically buried anywhere from 4 inches to 4 feet underground. The final depth depends on several factors, including the depth of your main sewer line, the height of the bedrock, soil type, local regulations, and the property's landscape. If you plan to grow grass or plants over the tank, a depth of at least 4 to 6 inches is recommended. Deeper tanks can be more difficult to locate, but a septic professional can help find it for you.

You can dig 60 to 80 linear feet by hand per day depending on the depth. Digging a 100-foot trench by hand will take you two work days, but it can take longer if you have heavy or rocky soil. If you’re digging a deep trench or one that’s over 100 feet, consider renting a mechanical trencher, such as a walk-behind or ride-on, or calling a pro for help. 

Hard soil could be a sign of overly dry dirt, either from poor drainage or drought. It's important to test the nutrient levels, density, and drainage capacity of your soil to see if it's absorbing water properly. Begin by adding a light layer of water and observing how long the soil retains moisture. If you experience a good deal of runoff, you may need to aerate your lawn, apply a wetting agent, or hire a professional for a closer look.

Underground downspouts refer to the sections of downspout extensions that lead away from your home and gutter system. While they cost more than traditional extensions, they can provide several benefits, such as less frequent damage and no need to move them for lawn care tasks. Whether they're worth it or not depends on your budget at installation time and how much convenience they'll add to your situation.

The Amherst, NY homeowners’ guide to excavation services

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