Excavation in Portland, OR
Trusted Excavation Contractors Serving Portland and Nearby Neighborhoods
When you need excavation in Portland OR, you want more than a crew with shovels—you want an experienced, licensed excavation contractor who understands how to dig safely, follow city codes, and deliver lasting results. At D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, we’ve been serving Portland and surrounding areas like Sellwood, Laurelhurst, Montavilla, Buckman, and Irvington for decades. From sewer line excavation to foundation site preparation, our team uses advanced equipment and skilled techniques to get your project done right the first time.
- Emergency Services
- On-Site Diagnosis & Estimates
- Licensed, Bonded, Insured
- Journeyman Plumbers
Our Journeyman Plumbers Are Experts In…
Water Line Excavation
Water lines are important components of any plumbing system–without a water main, indoor plumbing is impossible! Pipes don’t last forever and need to be replaced every so often because of corrosion, damage, or large obstructions.
Water Line ExcavationSewer Line Excavation
No plumbing system can function without waste lines. While some homes have septic tanks, most homes in metropolitan areas are connected to the municipal water line. These lines need to be regularly maintained to keep them properly functioning.
Sewer Line Excavation
Learn more about our great plumbing specials!
Why Excavation Services Are Essential in Portland
Excavation is the backbone of many plumbing and construction projects. A poorly executed dig can cause costly setbacks, while professional excavation ensures smooth progress from start to finish. Our work covers everything from grading and leveling for new construction to utility line excavation for plumbing and electrical systems.
Key benefits of professional excavation include:
- Safety – Avoid damaging underground gas, water, or electrical lines.
- Accuracy – Ensure proper depth and slope for sewer, water, and drainage systems.
- Compliance – Meet Portland permit and safety regulations.
- Durability – Set strong foundations for homes, businesses, and landscaping projects.
By combining technical knowledge with eco-friendly practices like erosion control excavation, we protect both your property and the environment.
Sewer and Water Line Excavation in Portland, OR
Few things are as disruptive as a broken sewer or water line. Often, the only solution is professional excavation to access and repair underground pipes. Our team handles:
- Residential sewer line excavation – replacing cracked, collapsed, or tree-root-damaged pipes.
- Water main excavation – digging trenches for new or upgraded water lines.
- Emergency excavation services – fast response when sudden failures threaten your property.
Whether you’re in Eastmoreland, dealing with frequent backups or in Kerns facing a leaking main, we bring both speed and precision to every excavation project.
Site Preparation and Foundation Excavation
Before construction can begin, the site must be prepared with expert excavation. D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling provides full foundation excavation and grading services for new builds, remodels, and additions.
We handle:
- Site grading and leveling for proper drainage.
- Foundation trenching to support stable structures.
- Soil stabilization to prevent erosion and settling.
Builders and homeowners in Buckman and Richmond rely on our expertise to create the strong groundwork their projects need to succeed.
WHY CHOOSE D & F?
"We had D&F replace a kitchen faucet at a rental we own in SE Portland. Teena was terrific on the phone, getting us scheduled quickly, and Tyler showed up on time and did a great job. Throughout, communication was excellent. We would recommend them to anyone, and will definitely use them again both at the rental and at our own house."
Ethan S.
"D&F plumbing is the best! I probably use them a few times a year and have never been disappointed with either the service or pricing. The Plumbers are always so nice, respectful and incredibly helpful! Jesse came out today and was awesome! Randy in office is the absolute best as well!! D&F is the plumbing company I’ll use and I recommend them to everyone."
Rachel A. "I called D and F to help me figure out how to turn the water back on that was accidentally turned off. They were supposed to call me back, but instead showed up within minutes and fixed the problem free of charge. I'm very happy with how they handled this issue and I'll definitely be using them on the next job."
Adam R. 
Drainage Excavation and Landscape Solutions
Portland’s heavy rainfall can cause significant flooding and erosion if drainage systems aren’t in place. Our drainage excavation services protect your home and landscape with solutions such as:
- French drains
- Dry wells
- Re-grading yards for water flow
- Sump pump excavation
Homeowners in neighborhoods like Alameda and Hawthorne appreciate how these systems prevent foundation damage and keep basements dry year-round.
Advanced Excavation Equipment and Safety Standards
As a licensed and insured excavation company in Portland OR, we use professional-grade equipment to ensure precision:
- Backhoes & trenchers for efficient digging
- Hydro excavation tools for minimal soil disruption
- Grading equipment for smooth, even site preparation
We also adhere to OSHA standards and Portland city regulations, ensuring every excavation project is safe for workers and compliant with codes.
Residential and Commercial Excavation Contractors
Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling provides tailored excavation solutions:
- Residential excavation – trenching for plumbing lines, drainage improvements, and foundation work.
- Commercial excavation – site prep for retail spaces, restaurants, apartments, and more.
- Utility excavation – digging for water, sewer, and electrical line installation.
From small-scale residential projects in Montavilla to large commercial builds downtown, we bring the same level of professionalism and attention to detail.
Eco-Friendly and Affordable Excavation Services
As Portland locals, we care about protecting our community. That’s why our excavation practices focus on sustainability—reducing waste, reusing materials, and preventing unnecessary soil disruption. We also believe in keeping excavation affordable, offering financing options and transparent pricing so you can plan confidently.
Searching for an affordable excavation contractor near me in Portland? We’re here to provide reliable solutions without sacrificing quality.
Eco-Friendly and Affordable Excavation Services
As Portland locals, we care about protecting our community. That’s why our excavation practices focus on sustainability—reducing waste, reusing materials, and preventing unnecessary soil disruption. We also believe in keeping excavation affordable, offering financing options and transparent pricing so you can plan confidently.
Searching for an affordable excavation contractor near me in Portland? We’re here to provide reliable solutions without sacrificing quality.
Excavation: Questions You Might Have
What does excavation mean in construction?
Excavation in construction means removing soil or rock to prepare a site for building, plumbing, or landscaping. It involves digging, trenching, grading, and stabilizing ground for safe and functional use.
How much does excavation cost in Portland OR?
The cost depends on project size, soil conditions, and accessibility. Small trenching jobs may be a few thousand dollars, while sewer line excavation in Portland or full foundation digs can cost more. Call us for a detailed estimate.
Do excavation contractors need permits in Portland?
Yes. Most excavation projects require permits for compliance and safety. As your licensed excavation contractor, D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling handles all necessary permits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. By re-grading or adding drainage systems like French drains, excavation can prevent flooding and protect your home.
Most sewer excavation jobs in Portland are completed in one to three days, depending on soil type and project complexity.
Excavation removes larger areas of earth, while trenching is narrow digging designed for pipes, cables, or utility lines.
Why Choose D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling for Excavation?
If you’re planning a new build, replacing an old sewer line, or improving drainage, trust the professionals at D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling. We proudly serve Portland OR, and nearby neighborhoods, including Laurelhurst, Sellwood, Buckman, Montavilla, and Irvington.
Call us today at (503) 664-0938 or request service online through our Contact Page. Let’s dig into your project with the precision and care you deserve.