Electricians near you

Pros can typically bury the following cables:

• Electrical cables. It’s a common way to run power to outdoor lights, sheds, or outlets. You’ll need to use a cable specifically rated for direct burial, like a UF-B cable. It also should be buried at a specific depth required by local electrical codes to help ensure safety.

• Coax cables. But it’s crucial to use one rated for direct burial. These special cables are designed to withstand moisture and soil, unlike standard indoor cables. For safety, the cable should also be buried at a depth that protects it from future digging or landscaping work.

• Internet cables. It’s important to use a direct-burial rated cable designed to withstand underground conditions. You’ll need to dig a trench deep enough to protect the line from damage.

Generally, communication cables like coax or fiber optics should be buried at least eighteen inches deep. The exact depth depends on your local building codes and the type of cable being installed. For example, electrical lines often need to be buried deeper — typically around twenty-four inches — to help ensure safety and prevent accidental damage.

When looking for a professional for cable burying, make sure you complete the following steps:

• Verify their license and insurance: Professionals may need a low-voltage or general contractor license, though requirements vary by region. They should always carry general liability insurance to cover any potential damage to your property.

• Get several estimates: A proper estimate should include the cost per foot for trenching, the price of the cable and any conduit, labor costs, and the planned burial depth. It should also clarify who is responsible for contacting 811 to locate existing utility lines.

• Read their reviews: Good signs in reviews include mentions of clean work, minimal landscape disruption, and good communication. Be wary of complaints about shallowly buried cables, damaged sprinkler systems, or a messy job site.

• Look at their portfolios: Check their past work for neat, straight trench lines and examples of how they restore the lawn or ground cover after the job is done. See if they have experience with terrain similar to yours.

• Find out if they have warranties: Ask if they guarantee their workmanship. This kind of warranty could protect you if a cable becomes exposed over time. The cable itself may also be covered by a manufacturer's warranty.

• Ask important questions: Before you hire, be sure to ask, “How deep will you bury the cable?” and “What is your process for restoring my lawn after digging?”

Cable burying projects vary in price according to many factors, including:

• Trench length and depth: The total distance the cable needs to run and how deep it must be buried are two of the biggest cost drivers. A longer, deeper trench simply requires more labor and time.

• Ground conditions: Digging through soft soil is much faster and easier than breaking through rocky ground, heavy clay, or a landscape full of tree roots. Difficult terrain can require more intensive labor or specialized equipment.

• Site accessibility and obstacles: The cost can increase if the trenching path has to navigate around or under obstacles like patios, driveways, sprinkler systems, or other utility lines.

• Type of cable and conduit: A simple ethernet cable is less complex to bury than a high-voltage electrical line, which often must be housed in a protective conduit by code. This adds to material and labor costs.

• Permits and utility location services: Depending on your area and the project’s scope, you may need a permit to dig. Your pro will also need to have public utilities marked to avoid dangerous and costly accidents, which can be factored into the price.

Typically, it will take a few hours to a full day for a professional to complete cable burying. There are a few factors that may impact how long it takes. For example:

• The length and depth of the trench required will directly affect the time needed for digging.

• Hard, rocky, or clay-heavy soil can be more difficult and time-consuming to trench than soft loam.

• Navigating around underground obstacles like tree roots, large rocks, or other utility lines can add time to the project.

• Your local municipality may require permits or inspections, which can influence the overall project schedule.

• The ease of access to the work area for trenching equipment can also play a role in the job's duration.

Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.

During your pro’s visit, you may expect them to first walk the property to confirm the cable’s path and mark any potential obstacles like sprinkler systems or other utility lines. They will then use specialized equipment to create a narrow trench, lay the cable, and carefully backfill the soil to minimize disruption to your lawn. Before they leave, they’ll usually test the connection to ensure everything is working correctly.

Taking these steps before your pro arrives to bury cables will help ensure a safe and efficient appointment:

Step 1: Clear the path. Remove any obstacles like outdoor furniture, planters, or yard decorations from the area where the cable will be buried. This gives your pro a clear and safe workspace.

Step 2: Mark the intended route. Use small flags or spray paint to mark the exact path where you want the cables to run. This helps avoid any confusion and ensures the job gets done right.

Step 3: Call 811 to locate utility lines. This is a free and essential service that marks the location of underground utilities like gas, water, and power lines. You’ll need to do this a few days in advance to prevent dangerous and costly accidents.

Step 4: Secure pets and children. For everyone's safety, make sure pets are kept indoors and children are supervised away from the work area, as the process can involve digging and open trenches.

Step 5: Provide clear access. Ensure any gates are unlocked and that there's a clear path for your pro to bring in their equipment. It’s also helpful to know where the nearest outdoor electrical outlet is, just in case they need it.