Site grading: Get a free quote • Fast response
Site grading
Are you working on a construction project and need to level the site? Correct grading is crucial for a successful outcome. We help you find the best local contractor for the job, so that your project is completed in the best possible way.
Here you’ll find everything you need to know about grading, and you can get a free, no-obligation quote from a qualified contractor in your area.
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What is grading?
Grading is the process of leveling and shaping the terrain of a site or area. This is done to create a stable, even surface that is ready for further development, planting or other purposes. Grading includes removing unevenness, filling in depressions, compacting masses and shaping slopes. Proper grading is important to ensure good drainage, stability and aesthetics.
It forms the basis for everything from house building and landscaping to parking lots and sports fields. A well-graded site gives you the best chance of success with your project, whether you’re building a house, creating a garden or laying out a sports field.
How much does grading cost?
The price of landscaping depends on the size of the plot, terrain, access and ground conditions. It is difficult to give an exact price for grading alone, as grading is often carried out as part of the entire groundwork. The cost of just excavating and levelling the site is usually in the region of NOK 1,500 to 3,000 per square meter, while the total cost per square meter for all groundwork varies from NOK 4,500 to 12,000 per square meter.
The price increases if there is a need to remove rubble, special design requirements or if it’s difficult to access it with small machines. A rough estimate is NOK 300,000 to 500,000 for levelling a standard single-family plot, but each plot must be assessed individually for an exact price.
What affects the price of levelling?
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Plot size
larger areas mean more work and a higher total price but can result in a lower price per square meter. -
Terrain conditions
steep and uneven terrain is more demanding to level. -
Ground conditions
mountains, bogs, clay or poor soils require extra measures. -
Access
narrow or difficult access requires smaller machines. -
Mass handling
driving away or bringing in masses increases the price. -
Special requests
complex design or special considerations increase the workload. -
– Location
distance to the contractor and landfill sites affects transportation and price. -
– Season
high season can result in higher prices due to high demand.
Different types of grading
Grading can be carried out on different types of terrain and for different purposes. Some common types of grading are site grading, sloping site, lawn and garden. Each type requires its own approach and technique to achieve the best possible result.
Leveling a plot
Site grading involves leveling the entire site area and shaping it to the desired profile. This is often the first step in a construction project to prepare the ground for foundations and further work. Correct levelling ensures good drainage and prevents water accumulation.
Levelling a sloping site
Grading sloping sites presents extra challenges and requires careful planning. The contractor must consider the degree of slope, soil type and erosion risk. It is often necessary to create terraces or retain walls to stabilize the ground.
Leveling the lawn
In order to get a nice, even lawn, proper grading is essential. The surface must be flat, compact and have the right slope for good drainage. An even surface makes it easier to sow grass or lay turf and gives the lawn a neat, well-kept appearance.
Leveling the garden
When planning a garden, it is important to consider different zones and the desired design. Beds, paths, lawns and seating areas have different needs for surfaces and height differences. Proper grading ensures good drainage, prevents erosion and facilitates a beautiful and functional garden.
The benefits of using professionals for grading
Grading is a job for professionals with the right skills and equipment. The benefits of using a skilled contractor are many. Properly executed grading ensures good drainage, stability and the right slope on the site. This prevents water accumulation, landslides and settlement damage to buildings and structures.
Professionals have the knowledge to assess the terrain, ground conditions and create the right profile on the site. They also have the equipment and machinery needed for efficient work with good precision.
An experienced contractor can level large areas in a short time. They can shape both hard and soft masses, remove stumps and roots, and sort out stones and blocks. Even the most difficult sites can be cleared up and prepared for further work.
A contractor can also help with planning and applications. They are familiar with the regulations and know what is required to obtain approval for the planning and development of your site. This helps you avoid delays and extra costs in your project.
What’s more, a professionally landscaped plot increases the value and marketability of your property. If you choose to do the job yourself, you risk expensive mistakes and a less than optimal result. A skilled contractor can give you a perfectly leveled plot at the agreed price and time.
Levelling a plot of land rules
The Planning and Building Act is the overarching law that regulates all construction activities in Norway, including site grading. The Act has several sections that are relevant to planning work:
- Section 20-2 stipulates that most forms of planning are measures requiring an application. This means that you must apply to the municipality and obtain permission before you can start work. The application must document that the grading does not contravene the provisions of the law.
- Section 28-1 stipulates requirements for the actual site and the ground to be built on. When grading, you must ensure that the measure does not lead to danger or inconvenience as a result of ground conditions or other natural and environmental conditions. If your site is exposed to flooding, landslides or avalanches, the municipality may refuse to grant permission or impose special requirements for safety measures.
- Section 28-2 states that you must implement the necessary safety measures before the grading work starts, to prevent damage to people, animals and property. You are also responsible for ensuring that the machines and equipment you use are in proper condition so that they do not pose any danger during the work.
- Section 28-3 regulates measures on neighboring land. If grading can lead to water seepage, landslides or slides that damage the neighboring property, the municipality may require you to carry out preventive safety measures on the neighbor’s land. They may also allow you to use the neighboring property temporarily if this is necessary to carry out the work. In such cases, the neighbor is entitled to compensation for inconvenience and costs.
- Section 29-2 deals with the visual qualities of the site and its surroundings. It states that the grading work must be carried out with respect to the existing landscape, buildings and cultural values. You cannot change the terrain in a way that is unsightly or conflicts with the character of the area.
In addition to the Planning and Building Act, you must also comply with the municipality’s own area plans and zoning regulations when planning. These may contain specific requirements and restrictions for heights, gradients, use of materials, planting and surface water management on your site.
The management of surplus materials and waste is another important point. Landscaping will often generate large amounts of material that must be transported away from the site. You are obliged to deliver the surplus materials to an approved landfill or recycling facility. If the masses are contaminated, this may trigger requirements for special treatment. Rubbish and waste from grading work must also be disposed of in accordance with regulations.
Site grading is therefore subject to a number of laws and regulations that you as the project owner must familiarize yourself with and follow. It may seem complicated and extensive, but the purpose is to safeguard safety, the environment and community interests in construction projects. If you choose to use a professional contractor for the planning work, they will be able to guide you through the regulations and ensure that everything is done correctly from start to finish.
Does levelling a plot require an application?
If you’re just levelling the terrain or filling in your own plot, you don’t usually need to apply, as long as the changes are small. The Planning and Building Act requires an application if:
- The grading results in a change in height differences of more than 1.5 meters. This applies even if the change occurs gradually over several levels.
- The measure affects an area of more than 1 acre, regardless of the change in terrain height.
In addition, special rules apply to grading in beach zones, near watercourses and in areas at risk of landslides. Here there are even stricter requirements for applications and measures.
Even grading that does not require an application must take place within the framework of the law. The measure must not pose a risk of damage to the environment or neighboring properties. Deviations may result in a stop and rectification order from the municipality.
It is therefore important to check with the municipality about what applies to your property. Often it will be necessary to apply with associated documentation before work starts. A professional contractor can assist you in the application process and ensure that the grading work is carried out correctly.
Receive a quote for grading
To ensure you get the best possible results at a good price, you should contact a local contractor with plenty of experience of levelling work. Ask for references and check previous work and reputation.
The quality of the grading work is crucial for your entire construction project. A skilled contractor with good references can provide you with a perfectly leveled site that forms the basis for a successful development.
So that you don’t have to spend time comparing all the contractors in your area, send us an inquiry. We work with qualified contractors all over the country who have extensive experience in grading. Fill in the form on our website and we’ll forward your enquiry to the contractor in your area best suited to your project. Our service is free and without obligation.
