How do I confirm my Ottawa contractor will protect my underground lines?

Before any excavation begins, your contractor must call Ontario One Call (1-800-400-2255) at least five business days in advance to have all underground utilities located and marked. This is legally required in Ontario for any digging deeper than 30cm and protects gas, electrical, water, sewer, cable, and internet lines.

Your driveway contractor should automatically handle the Ontario One Call process, but you should verify they've done it. Ask to see the locate ticket number and confirm that utility marking flags or paint are visible on your property before excavation starts. The standard marking colors are yellow for gas, red for electrical, blue for water, green for sewer, and orange for telecommunications. These markings are typically valid for 30 days, so if your project is delayed, new locates may be required.

Beyond the mandatory utility locates, discuss your specific underground infrastructure with your contractor. Many Ottawa homes have underground sprinkler systems, low-voltage landscape lighting, invisible dog fences, or private utility lines that won't show up on municipal locates. Walk your property with the contractor and point out any irrigation heads, electrical boxes, or areas where you know lines run. If you have irrigation system drawings or know where your electrical service enters the house, share that information.

For driveway projects requiring deep excavation (new driveways need 450-600mm depth in Ottawa due to frost line requirements), the risk to underground lines is significant. Gas lines are typically buried 600mm deep, electrical service lines 750mm, and water/sewer mains even deeper, but service laterals to your house may be shallower. A responsible contractor will hand-dig or use vacuum excavation near marked utilities rather than using heavy machinery blindly.

Ask your contractor about their insurance coverage for utility strikes. Hitting a gas line can cost $10,000+ in emergency response and repair fees, while severing electrical or telecommunications lines disrupts service and creates liability. Contractors should carry comprehensive general liability insurance that covers utility damage. Request proof of insurance and verify it's current.

For interlock or concrete driveways, be especially cautious about irrigation systems. Sprinkler lines are often only 200-300mm deep and won't be marked by Ontario One Call since they're private infrastructure. If you have an irrigation system, have it professionally located before excavation or plan to reroute lines around the new driveway. Many Ottawa homeowners discover damaged sprinkler lines when they turn their system on the following spring.

When to hire a professional: Any excavation deeper than 300mm or within 3 metres of known utility lines requires professional contractors with proper insurance and Ontario One Call compliance. Never attempt DIY excavation near utilities - the risks far outweigh any cost savings.

Need help finding a driveway contractor who follows proper utility protection protocols? Ottawa Driveways can match you with experienced local professionals who understand Ontario excavation requirements.