When the purchase contract for the new property has been concluded, the actual construction process can finally begin. But many areas are not yet ready for development. Especially in sloping areas it is important to bring them to a level level.
How to straighten a sloped property?
Permits may be required to grade a sloped property. Smaller bumps can be handled independently, while larger areas require professional machines and companies. Costs vary depending on the scope of the work.
Applicable building law
Section 909 of the Building Code stipulates that deepening a property is not permitted if it endangers the neighboring property. If consequential damage occurs, the neighbor can claim compensation. Building regulations follow the fundamental principle that, if possible, a property should not be changed. You must obtain permission for interventions such as removal and embankment.
Essential tools
If there are small unevennesses on the building site, you can straighten them yourself with a shovel, roller and rake. This involves redistributing the existing soil without having to move large amounts of earth. If the imbalance is significant, heavy equipment is required.
Professional straightening
Tillers are useful for work on a somewhat larger scale. Complex movements of large amounts of substrate or the removal of a mound of earth require a mini wheel loader. Earthmoving companies are in demand when completely new properties need to be leveled.
Rough sequence of preparatory work
In the first cut, the height difference of the sloping property is calculated. This provides the basis for calculating the volume of earth that needs to be moved. Such height measurements are carried out on classic lawns using poles, cords and a spirit level. There are special devices for leveling and calculating slope, which provide more accurate measurement results. They prove to be indispensable for larger projects.
Alternative options for small-area slopes:
- Terracing and straightening of partial areas
- Retaining walls for fortifying sloping areas
- L-stones, dry stone walls or planting stones as anti-slip protection
Possible costs
How deep you have to dig into your pocket depends on the scope of the work. Do-it-yourself straightening is the most cost-effective option, but it quickly reaches its limits. If you commission a horticultural company to do the excavation, it can cost between 25 and 50 euros per cubic meter. These fees are influenced by soil quality. Additional expenses arise for filling and leveling the subsoil as well as the removal and disposal of the unneeded excavated earth, so you quickly reach 100 euros per square meter of area.
