In which scenario would a builder first check local utility companies?

A builder would first check with local utility companies before excavation work to ensure that the area is free from underground utilities such as water lines, gas lines, electrical conduits, and telecommunications cables. This is a critical step because digging without verifying the presence of these utilities can lead to serious accidents, including service interruptions, property damage, or even injury to workers.

By consulting local utility companies prior to starting excavation, the builder can obtain information about the location and depth of any existing services, allowing for safe planning and execution of the excavation process. This proactive approach not only ensures safety but also helps to avoid costly delays and repairs that can arise from damaging utilities during excavation.

The timing of this check is essential; addressing utility concerns at this stage is preferable before the project moves into later phases such as framing, permitting, or pouring concrete, where the risks related to unnoticed utilities become higher and could lead to more significant complications.