Before you start painting, call underground utility locators. Even if it doesn’t seem related to painting, taking this precaution can save you time, money, and possible problems.
It’s important to know where underground utilities are when you dig, drill, or disturb the ground a lot. This information helps prevent damage to utility lines, which can lead to service interruptions, expensive repairs, and safety hazards.
This blog post will tell you why you should contact underground utility locators before starting your home painting project.
What Are Underground Utility Finders?
Underground utility locators are people who use special tools to find and label underground things like gas lines, water pipes, electricity cables, and phone lines. They show you exactly where these utilities are on your property.
Stopping Expensive Damage
Utility lines can be expensive to fix. By calling underground utility locators, you can avoid these costs. It’s cheaper to take this preventive step than to deal with the consequences of hitting a utility line.
Reduce Project Delays
A utility line that is damaged can delay your project. You’ll have to fix the damage and stop your painting project until the utility issue is fixed. Knowing where utilities are helps you before getting home painting services.
Follow The Rules
In many places, you need to find and mark underground utilities before you start digging. If you don’t follow these rules, you could be fined or punished by the law. If you use underground utility locators, you’re following the rules.
Being Accountable & Responsible
If you hurt underground utilities, you might have to pay for fixing them and any damage that comes with it. Taking the step to find utilities protects you from legal and financial responsibility in case of damage by accident.
How To Find Underground Utility Locations?
Follow these steps to find the underground utility locations:
Call Your Utility Company
Most local utility companies offer utility locating services or can refer you to a reliable service provider. Contact your utility company well in advance of starting your painting project to set up an inspection.
Call The National Hotlines
You can call national hotlines in many countries to ask for utility locating services. In the United States, you can call 811 to connect with your local utility locating service. Services like these are often free or available at a low cost.
The Service Will Be Scheduled
Once you find the right utility locator service, set up an appointment for them to come to your property. Be sure to give them enough information about your project so they can mark all utility lines correctly.
How To Prepare For The Utility Locator’s Visit
Mark areas where you plan to dig or disturb the ground. This helps utilities find the parts of your property that need to be checked. When the people who find utilities arrive, explain your project plans clearly.
Show them the areas that have been marked and explain what needs to be done. This makes sure they mark underground utilities accurately.
Conclusion
Calling underground utility locators before starting your home painting project is an important step that ensures safety, prevents costly damages, and keeps your project on track.
By knowing where utilities are and following the steps to mark them underground, you can avoid unnecessary risks and have a successful painting project. It’s always safer to be safe than sorry when it comes to underground utilities.
