Homeowner & GC Resource
The 12-Point Build-Ready Site Checklist
Twelve checks you can run yourself, in order, before you accept a graded site or sign off on the dirt work. Written for the person paying for it.
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The grade actually drains
Water must flow visibly away from building corners at a minimum 2% to 5% slope for the first 10 feet. Check for ponding or reverse slope.
The pad is compacted to a stated spec
Verify that compaction isn't just 'rolled with a skid steer.' It should be compacted in 6-to-8-inch lifts with vibratory rollers.
Density testing is documented
For commercial slabs or custom foundations, request the nuclear density gauge compaction test log (typically 95% or 98% Standard/Modified Proctor).
Rock and unsuitable soil were addressed
Muck, organic topsoil, and high-plasticity clay beneath the structural envelope must be undercut and backfilled with approved structural fill.
Stumps were excavated, not ground
Grinding leaves root systems that rot over 3 to 7 years, creating severe sinkholes beneath driveways and foundation margins. Ensure stumps were root-plucked.
Erosion control went in first
Silt fence, straw wattles, and stabilized construction entrances must be active prior to grading to avoid costly county stop-work orders.
The storm outlet actually discharges
Culverts and storm runs must have positive fall to daylight or an approved municipal tie-in, protected by riprap or headwalls.
Utility corridors are at grade
Power, water, and septic runs must be rough-graded so utility contractors don't have to excavate through finished structural fill.
The pad matches the drawings
Measure setbacks, benchmark elevation pins, and dimensions against the approved site plan with a laser transit or GPS rover.
You have stage-by-stage photographs
Photographs before, during subgrade stripping, and during utility backfill protect you if subsurface disputes occur later.
There's a written scope and a walkthrough
Both owner/GC and dirt contractor walk the perimeter, verify elevations with a transit, and sign a mutual turnover acceptance sheet.
Someone is named for the permit
Verify NPDES/stormwater permit notices of termination (NOT) and local Kershaw/Richland county land disturbance sign-offs are in order.