Footing Excavation Cost Calculator for Melbourne
Calculate Cost Of Footing Excavation
How much does excavation cost in Melbourne?
Footing excavation costs in Melbourne range from $3.56 to $20.48 per cubic yard, translating to a total cost of $139 to $419 per cubic yard. The hourly rates for an excavator and operator have increased from $1,517 to $7,720. On average, the total excavation cost varies widely based on project specifics, such as soil type, site accessibility, and depth of excavation. These factors collectively influence the final price, making obtaining a detailed quote tailored to your project’s requirements essential.Additionally, factors such as proximity to existing structures, presence of vegetation, and underground utilities influence excavation complexity and costs.

Cost Category | Price Range |
Cost per cubic yard | $3.20 – $18.77 |
Total cost per cubic yard | $125 – $375 |
Excavator & operator hourly rates | $1,375 – $7,050 |
Average total excavation cost | $8,125 – $177,510 |
Factors Influencing Footing Excavation Costs
Soil Type and Condition
The composition and condition of soil are pivotal in determining excavation costs. Soft, loose soils demand more labor and time for excavation compared to compact ones. Conducting comprehensive soil testing and analysis aids in understanding soil characteristics and planning excavation operations accordingly.
Depth and Size of Footings
The depth and dimensions of footings directly influence excavation volume and, consequently, costs. Deeper footings entail more excavation work, leading to increased expenses. Moreover, larger footings required for robust or tall structures necessitate more extensive excavation efforts, adding to the overall project costs.
Access and Site Conditions
Accessibility to the construction site and prevailing site conditions are critical factors impacting excavation costs. Sites with restricted access or challenging terrains may necessitate specialized equipment or techniques, thereby escalating overall expenses.
Additionally, factors such as proximity to existing structures, presence of vegetation, and underground utilities influence excavation complexity and costs.
Equipment and Labor Costs
The choice of excavation equipment and prevailing labor rates significantly contribute to overall project costs. Varying soil types and site conditions may require specific machinery, affecting rental or acquisition costs. Labor expenses vary based on factors like skill level, experience, and project location, thus influencing the overall budget allocation for excavation.
Melbourne Footing Excavation Costs Across Various Projects
Footing excavation costs are contingent on various factors, including soil composition, excavation depth, terrain characteristics, potential obstructions, and the volume of earth to be moved. These variables collectively influence the overall estimation for the excavation process.
Project | Average Cost |
Foundation pad for new home site | $1,875 – $12,536 |
Dig a basement for new construction | $1,875 – $12,552 |
Dig around existing house | $6,250 – $18,740 |
Dig an in-ground swimming pool | $1,250 – $6,250 |
Excavate a driveway, patio, or deck dirt pad | $1,250 – $3,125 |
Excavate a hillside or flatten slopes | $1,250 – $6,220 |
Grading for lawn installation | $1,250 – $6,270 |
Rock / ledge removal | $1,250 – $25,000+ |
Trenching for sewer, septic, or drainage system | $625 – $1,550 |
Hire Footing Excavation Contractors
- School & University Building
- High-Rise Building
- Shopping Complex
- Data Center Building
- Multi-Family Building
- Hotel Building
- Hospital Building
- Warehouse Building
Cost to Excavate Land Per Cubic Yard & Hourly in Melbourne
In Melbourne, excavation expenses are typically calculated based on cubic yardage or project scope, with hourly rates often applied for smaller tasks. Square foot pricing is less common, primarily reserved for shallow grading projects. It’s common for excavation contractors in Melbourne to establish minimum project fees ranging from $520 to $900.
Charge Type | Average Cost |
Cost per cubic yard | $3.28 – $18.80 |
Cost per hour (operator & excavator) | $125 – $380 |
Cost per hour (operator only) | $62.50 – $187.60 |
Cost per day (excavator rental only) | $250 – $877 |
Cost per square foot | $1.25 – $6.50 |
Cost per acre | $1,250 – $3,756 |
Excavation cost per cubic yard in Melbourne
Excavation costs per cubic yard typically range from $3.55 to $18.29 in Floriad. This variance is influenced by factors such as soil composition, excavation depth, terrain intricacies, and the presence of obstructions. Sand or lighter soil often incurs lower excavation expenses, whereas rocky terrain or areas necessitating jackhammering can significantly raise costs to $65 to $242 or beyond per cubic yard.
Soil Type or Condition | Cost per Cubic Yard |
Light soil | $3.10 – $7.40 |
Average soil | $7.25 – $12.50 |
Heavy/wet soil or loose rock | $12.00 – $18.24 |
Jackhammered rock | $60 – $240+ |
Excavation Prices for New Home Sites in Melbourne
Excavator Hourly Rates in Melbourne
Excavator hourly rates typically range from $125 to $365 for operators with their mini excavator, backhoe, or skid-steer loader. Hiring an operator without equipment costs $68 to $185 per hour. Most operators charge a minimum of one day or eight hours. Renting your mini excavator in Melbourne costs $248 to $842 per day, varying based on size and features.
New home site excavation cost
Excavation costs for home sites in Melbourne typically range from $1,546 to $10,007 on average, contingent upon factors like foundation size, depth, and terrain. In areas with rocky soil, large boulders, or excessive clay, excavation for a large foundation can exceed $20,050.
Pouring a concrete slab foundation in Melbourne generally costs between $6,900 to $16,230, while building an unfinished basement foundation may range from $26,800 to $50,300.

The overall cost of building a house in Melbourne averages between $155,320 to $416,320, varying based on size and design preferences.
For those considering a barndominium, the cost typically falls within the range of $72 to $120 per square foot.
Basement or Crawl Space Excavation Cost in Melbourne
Basement excavation for new construction in Melbourne now averages between $12,000 to $36,025. This cost variation is influenced by factors such as size, depth, and terrain. Typically, this process takes 2 to 4 days to complete. However, in areas with challenging access or rocky soil, excavation costs may exceed $36,000 to $60,000 or more.
Basement Height & Difficulty | Average Cost |
8’ – 9’ (standard soil) | $12,050 – $24,020 |
10’ – 12’ (standard soil) | $24,000 – $36,029 |
8’ – 12’ (difficult or rocky soil) | $36,000 – $60,000+ |
Tips for Cost-Effective Footing Excavation
Proper Planning and Design
Thorough planning and meticulous design are paramount for minimizing excavation requirements and associated costs. Collaboration between architects and engineers is crucial to devise efficient footing layouts that reduce the need for extensive excavation. By carefully considering factors such as soil conditions, structural requirements, and building codes, designers can optimize the design to minimize excavation while ensuring structural integrity.
Clear Communication with Contractors
Effective communication with excavation contractors is essential for accurate cost estimation and smooth project execution. Clear and detailed communication of project requirements, including footing specifications, excavation depths, and access constraints, enables contractors to provide accurate quotes and plan their operations effectively. Regular updates and clarifications help prevent misunderstandings and minimize the risk of costly change orders during excavation.
Download Template For Footing Excavation Project Breakdown
- Materials list updated to the zip code
- Fast delivery
- Data base of general contractors and sub-contractors
- Local estimators

Regular Monitoring and Quality Control
Continuous monitoring and stringent quality control during excavation are essential to ensure compliance with plans and specifications. Regular inspections help identify any deviations from the design or unexpected challenges early on, allowing for prompt resolution and mitigation of potential issues. By maintaining strict quality control standards, project teams can prevent costly rework, delays, and safety hazards associated with excavation activities.
Conclusion
Footing excavation costs in Melbourne range widely, from $3.56 to $20.48 per cubic yard, totaling $139 to $419 per cubic yard. Excavator and operator hourly rates have increased from $1,517 to $7,720. The final excavation cost varies based on project specifics such as soil type, accessibility, and depth. Understanding factors like soil composition, excavation depth, and site conditions is crucial. Various projects like foundation pads, basements, and swimming pools exhibit different cost ranges. Excavation costs in Melbourne depend on factors like soil type, depth, and accessibility. Obtaining a tailored quote is essential for accurate project budgeting.
FAQs
Soil type and condition, excavation depth and size, access to the site, presence of obstructions, and the volume of earth to be moved are the primary factors influencing footing excavation costs. Each of these factors can significantly impact the overall expense of the project.
To estimate the footing excavation cost for your project, it’s crucial to consider factors such as the size and depth of the footings, the type of soil on your site, any existing structures nearby, and the accessibility of the site. Obtaining a detailed quote from local experts tailored to your project’s requirements is the most accurate way to determine the cost.
Common projects like foundation pads for new home sites, digging basements for new constructions, excavating around existing houses, installing in-ground swimming pools, and others have varying average excavation costs. These costs depend on factors such as the size, depth, and complexity of the excavation required for each project. For instance, digging a basement for new construction in Melbourne averages between $1,875 to $12,552, while excavating around an existing house may cost between $6,250 to $18,740.
Different soil types have varying levels of difficulty when it comes to excavation. Lighter soils may incur lower excavation expenses, while heavier soils or loose rocks can increase costs significantly. For example, excavation costs for light soil can range from $3.10 to $7.40 per cubic yard, while excavation in heavy/wet soil or loose rock may cost between $12.00 to $18.24 per cubic yard.
Proper planning and design, clear communication with contractors, regular monitoring, and quality control are essential for minimizing excavation costs. By optimizing the design to reduce excavation requirements, communicating effectively with contractors, and ensuring strict quality control standards during excavation, project teams can mitigate unnecessary expenses.
Excavation costs in Melbourne have seen an increase in recent years, with changes in hourly rates for excavators and operators. For example, excavator hourly rates typically range from $125 to $365 for operators with their equipment, while hiring an operator without equipment costs $68 to $185 per hour. These rates have increased from previous years, contributing to changes in overall excavation costs.
Google Reviews





Process To Get Footing Excavation Cost Estimate Report
Here I am going to share some steps to get footing excavation cost estimate report.
-
You need to send your plan to us.
You can send us your plan on info@estimatorflorida.com
-
You receive a quote for your project.
Before starting your project, we send you a quote for your service. That quote will have detailed information about your project. Here you will get information about the size, difficulty, complexity and bid date when determining pricing.
-
Get Estimate Report
Our team will takeoff and estimate your project. When we deliver you’ll receive a PDF and an Excel file of your estimate. We can also offer construction lead generation services for the jobs you’d like to pursue further.