From planting trees to setting fence posts or even installing a patio, there are plenty of outdoor DIY projects that necessitate some form of digging. Although these projects are all vastly different, they do have one thing in common: they require homeowners to call 811 before they start the job.
The national call-before-you-dig hotline is 811, and calling it is the first step when people ask us about the first thing they need to do before excavating in Monroe, LA. After you dial 811, someone will come out to your property and inspect the land to ensure it’s safe to dig. Continue reading to learn more about this national hotline and everything else you need to know about your DIY digging project.
Why is it crucial to call 811?
Neglecting to dial 811 before beginning your digging project has some serious consequences. Here are a few of the things that can go wrong if you don’t get the go-ahead from 811 before you dig:
- Electrical cables: The first reason homeowners must call 811 prior to digging is because of all the electrical lines running underground. Accidentally cutting one of the wires or cables can cut power to your home or the entire neighborhood. Additionally, cutting into a livewire could result in some serious injury or death. Electric wires or cables will be marked with red spray paint on your lawn.
- Gas and oil lines: Even if your home doesn’t use natural gas or oil, there still may be lines running under your property. Disturbed gas lines could cut off fuel to your neighbor’s house, or worse, cause an explosion from built-up gas underground. Workers will mark oil or gas lines with yellow spray paint so you’ll know where to avoid digging.
- Water lines: Whether your home is connected to the city water system or a septic tank, dialing 811 is still the answer if you’re wondering about what’s the first thing to do before excavating in Monroe, LA. Accidentally cutting into a water line could lead to a massive flood in the yard while cutting off your water access for a few days. Potable water lines are marked with blue paint.
- Sewer lines: Avoiding cutting a sewer line is one of the biggest reasons to call before you dig in Monroe, LA! All of that raw sewage spilling into your yard makes quite a mess, and it could also pose a fire hazard due to the high levels of methane gas. Depending on where you live, cutting into a sewer line could disrupt the whole neighborhood. All sewer lines will be marked by green spray paint.
How far ahead do you need to call 811?
In order for the proper authorities to come out to your house, we recommend dialing 811 at least two weeks before you plan to start digging. That said, the more notice you can give, the better.
Call us after you call 811
After you call before you dig in Monroe, LA, contact Ram Rent-All, Inc. to rent your digging equipment. Whether you need small tools or heavy-duty machinery, we have all of the necessary equipment to complete your home improvement project.