Why Smart Homeowners Trust Private Locates Before Digging Projects

Whether you’re putting in a new fence, creating a garden bed, or even installing a pool, there’s one crucial step that can make or break your project: locating utilities. For many homeowners, calling 811 for public locates seems like enough. But smart homeowners know that there’s often more beneath the surface—private lines that aren’t marked by public services. Relying only on public locates can lead to costly accidents, project delays, and even safety hazards.

I’ve seen this firsthand. A friend of mine decided to install an outdoor kitchen, complete with a gas grill, lighting, and an irrigation system. He figured he was good to go after calling 811. However, as soon as the digging started, they hit a private gas line that had been installed for a fire pit by the previous homeowner. The accident caused a major delay, required expensive repairs, and left him wishing he’d called a private locator to cover all the bases.

In this article, we’ll explore why private locates are essential and what makes them a smart choice for homeowners who want to keep their property—and their projects—safe.

What Are Private Locates and Why Are They Essential?

When it comes to underground utilities, there are two main types of locates: public and private. Understanding the difference can help you avoid costly mistakes.

Private Locates vs. Public Locates

Public locates (through services like 811) mark utilities that are owned and maintained by utility companies, such as gas, water, sewer, and electric lines—usually only up to the property boundary or meter.

Private locates cover everything else, including any lines added after the home was built, like gas lines for outdoor kitchens, sprinkler systems, and landscape lighting. These utilities belong to the homeowner, not the utility companies, and they won’t be marked by 811.

Why This Matters

If these private lines aren’t marked, you risk striking them during your project. This can result in expensive repairs, project delays, and even safety hazards. For this reason, savvy homeowners make it a priority to schedule private locates before they start digging.

Risks of Skipping Private Locates

Many homeowners assume that public locates will cover all the bases, but here are some of the risks that come with ignoring private locates:

Hidden Private Lines

Your property likely has a few private lines that you might not be aware of, especially if it’s an older property or if previous owners added custom features. Private utilities can include gas lines for outdoor fire pits, electrical lines for lighting, and irrigation pipes for landscaping. Without locating these lines, it’s easy to hit one by accident.

Accidental Strikes and Costs

Hitting a private line comes with immediate costs and frustrations. For example, damaging a sprinkler line while digging for a garden bed might not seem like a big deal, but the repair costs, added time, and effort can quickly add up. And if you hit something more significant, like a gas or electrical line, the consequences are even more serious.

Safety Hazards

Certain lines, like gas and electrical cables, pose real safety risks. Striking a gas line can cause a leak, and accidentally cutting an electrical line can result in injury. Ensuring these utilities are located before you dig means protecting yourself, your property, and anyone working on the project.

Benefits of Private Locating Services

Hiring a private locating service might seem like an extra step, but it brings numerous benefits that make it a worthwhile investment.

Full Property Coverage

Private locators provide a comprehensive view of all utilities on your property, including the ones public locates miss. With a private locate, you’ll have an accurate map of every utility—both public and private—helping you avoid any unexpected surprises.

Cost and Time Savings

While hiring a private locator does come with an upfront cost, it’s far cheaper than the potential repair bills from hitting an unmarked line. Striking a line could mean shutting down your project for days or even weeks. Private locates keep your project running smoothly and on schedule.

Increased Safety

Private locates protect everyone involved in the project. Knowing exactly where each line is helps prevent injuries and accidents, giving you the peace of mind that comes from knowing the site is safe for digging.

When to Call a Private Locator

While a private locate is beneficial for most digging projects, there are a few specific scenarios where it’s especially important:

Large or Complex Projects

Projects involving major digging, like installing pools, decks, patios, or even fences, are much safer when you know exactly what’s underground. Larger projects often require deeper digging, increasing the chance of hitting a line.

Older Properties

If your property is older, it’s more likely to have undocumented or outdated private lines that previous homeowners installed. These lines could be anywhere, so a private locate is the best way to protect yourself from hitting a mystery utility.

Newly Purchased Homes

For new homeowners, it’s essential to know what utilities are below your property before starting any outdoor projects. Previous owners may have installed utilities that aren’t obvious or well-documented, and private locates help you understand exactly what’s underground.

Choosing a Reliable Private Locator

Once you decide to call in a private locator, choosing the right professional is important. Here’s what to look for:

Certification and Reputation

Look for private locators certified by reputable industry organizations, such as the National Utility Locating Contractors Association (NULCA). Certified locators have the training and experience needed for reliable residential locating.

Use of Advanced Technology

Private locators should use state-of-the-art equipment, like ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic locators, which can detect both metallic and non-metallic lines at varying depths. This technology ensures a thorough and precise locate.

Transparency and Communication

A good locator should provide clear explanations and communicate openly. This includes sharing accurate utility maps, explaining the location process, and keeping you informed throughout the project.

Be a Smart Homeowner, Trust Private Locates Before You Dig

Calling in a private locator before starting a project might seem like a small step, but it can make a huge difference. From unexpected costs to project delays and safety hazards, the risks of skipping a private locate are real. Smart homeowners know that when it comes to protecting their property, a private locate is an essential investment.

So, before you grab that shovel or start digging, remember: private locates provide the peace of mind that comes from knowing your project is set up for success. By taking the time to locate every utility on your property, you’re safeguarding your investment, keeping your project on track, and protecting everyone involved. Schedule a private locate and start your project with confidence—because smart homeowners never leave things to chance.