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Removal & Excavation Services SOP

1. Greet Client

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  • Introduce yourself and explain the scope of the walkthrough and documentation.

2. Walk Through the Planting Areas

 

  • Identify and confirm exactly what the client wants removed or excavated.

  • Ask clarifying questions as needed.

3. Take Photos (With Permission)

 

  • Document each specific item or area to be removed, especially when multiple structures/plants are involved.

  • Take wide and close-up photos from different angles for accuracy.

4. Evaluate Hazards & Obstacles for Equipment Access

 

  • Look for:

    • Structures (house, sheds, fences, decks)

    • Utility lines (overhead and underground)

    • Tight entry points or slope/access issues

    • Nearby landscaping or elements to protect

5. Determine Equipment Need

 

  • Based on the scope and access, estimate whether hand tools, skid steers, mini-excavators, dump trailers, or stump grinders will be required.

  • Consider how material will be loaded and hauled away.

Tree/Shrub/Plant Removal Procedure

1. Evaluate Tree or Shrub Size and Structure

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  • For trees over 20 ft tall in tight structural areas, inform client we do not perform removal.

  • For open areas, any tree size can be considered.

2. Count and Identify Items to Be Removed

 

  • How many trees/shrubs/plants?

  • What kind of species or root structure (if known)?

3. Stump Grinding

  • Ask if the client wants stumps left, cut at ground level, or ground down.

  • Take photo and measure stump diameter if grinding is requested.

4. Trimming vs. Removal

  • Confirm if client wants full removal or only trimming/shaping.

  • Be clear on expectations and limits of service.

5. Locate Safe Drop Zone for Tree Felling

  • Determine safest direction for tree to fall.

  • Evaluate surrounding space and nearby obstacles.

  • Note if tree is leaning heavily in one direction and if it influences drop zone or removal method.

6. Shrub Removal Considerations

  • Can the shrub be dug out by hand?

  • Or is heavy equipment required to pull it out?

Excavation & Small Demolition Procedure

1. Define the Scope of Excavation or Demolition

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  • What exactly is being excavated or torn down?

  • Clarify expectations for depth, width, and material disposal.

2. Materials Disposal Planning

  • Note what kind of material is being removed (e.g., dirt, wood, concrete, metal, landscape block).

  • Find appropriate dump site for each type.

  • Confirm if disposal fees apply.

3. Evaluate Site Access & Safety

  • Look for structural, utility, slope, or other hazards for machinery operation.

  • Check soil stability, surrounding landscaping, and tight working areas.

4. Grading/Backfilling Requirements

  • Ask if the client wants the area graded smooth or left open.

  • Determine if additional topsoil, gravel, or fill is needed post-excavation.

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