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One stop local shop
Need Groundwork Done Right Our Lismore Excavation Crew is Ready

Need Groundwork Done Right? Our Lismore Excavation Crew is Ready!

Got a tricky block that needs levelling, land to clear, or a site to prep for a new build anywhere in the Northern Rivers?

Our experienced Lismore-based excavation team tackles all types of earthworks with precision, from foundation prep and land clearing to trenching and building driveways (sealed or gravel) across the region.

Separately, we offer a specialised nationwide service focused solely on site preparation for our mobile home delivery.

We use modern equipment (5 & 20-tonne excavators, tippers) always on a wet hire basis, meaning our skilled and insured local operators are part of the deal. As your one-stop tradie hire shop, we work smoothly with our builder team for foundations or plumbing services for trenching. We also handle waste disposal.

Remember, proper excavation ensures a stable base and correct levels. This groundwork is vital before starting building services like concreting, or for the correct fall required when installing septic systems.

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Don’t Dig Blind: Common DIY Earthworks Mistakes (and How We Avoid Them)

We get it, YouTube makes it look easy. But there’s a lot more to excavation than hopping on a machine and moving dirt around. We’ve listed some common mistakes we’ve seen (and fixed) that are worth avoiding.

Bottom line? Dig smart, not just deep. We’ve got the skills, machines, and crew to get it done safely, and right the first time. If you’d rather avoid the hassle and get it done properly from the start, we’re ready to help.

No idea what’s underground

Pipes, cables, tree roots… they’re all down there. We check before we dig, so you don’t end up without power and water.

Wrong levels = big problems

Even small level mistakes can mess with drainage, slab pours or driveway runoff. We cut pads properly the first time.

Digging too early

Site not marked out yet? Plans not final? You’d be shocked how often we see unnecessary rework (and extra costs).

Using the wrong gear

A tiny machine for a big job (or vice versa) slows everything down. We bring the right machine, right operator, right result.

Skipping waste disposal

Dirt and rubble don’t vanish on their own. We include cleanup and disposal so you’re not left with a mess.

See What Our Building Clients Have to Say

Building is about trust as much as skill. Read real stories from clients about our reliable work, clear communication and quality craftsmanship on renovations and new builds. Discover why NR Local Trades is the trusted building partner across the Northern Rivers.

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Digging Deep into Excavation & Earthworks FAQs

Got questions about moving dirt, site cuts for foundations or land clearing requirements? Find practical answers for your Lismore earthworks here.

What size excavator do I need for digging house footings?

It really depends on your site access and required depth! For tight spots or standard house footings, our 5-tonne excavator is nimble and perfect. Got a bigger commercial job or major site excavation in Lismore? The 20-tonne beast brings muscle. Either way, you get a skilled operator with our wet-hire-only service.

Can you clear trees and vegetation from my block before a build?

You bet! Land clearing is essential for earthworks prep in the Northern Rivers. Our earthmoving contractors handle tree removal, stump grinding, and clearing scrub, ensuring a site ready for your builder and compliant with any local environmental considerations.

Do you just dig holes, or can you also spread and level soil?

We do more than just dig! Our excavating services cover precise soil excavation, cutting level building pads to specification, spreading topsoil neatly, and grading for driveways for correct water runoff, often coordinating levels with plumbing services.

I need a lot of old concrete removed. Can your tip truck service handle that?

Absolutely! Got old concrete paths or driveways? Our tip truck service efficiently removes heavy demolition waste from earthworks sites. We handle loading and ensure disposal follows EPA guidelines.

I need an access track cut on my rural property. Is that earthmoving you do?

Yes, cutting access tracks on rural blocks is right up our alley! Our Northern Rivers earthmoving crew handles driveway construction (shaping, gravel or sealing prep), ensuring correct crossfall and compaction for stability and all-weather access.

Your One-Stop Earthworks & Excavation Quote

Got an excavation project? First step: Call our Lismore team at (02) 6626 1600. We'll discuss your site prep or clearing needs and get your quote organised.

Contact Us

Get in touch with our team for all your building and renovation needs.