cost to excavate foundation
1 With new house construction, excavating 2'-4' deep for a crawl space foundation and footers (the bottom of the foundation, which must be wider and extend below the frost line) can cost $800-$10,000 or more, depending on location and what's included. Although most excavation companies hire out a machine and operator on an hourly basis ($40-$150 or more an hour) for a wide variety or work, they typically bid on residential excavation for the entire project based on the number of yards of dirt to be moved.
1 Prices can increase if the digging hits a rock shelf or other underground obstruction. 2  Excavation companies usually charge at least $200-$1,200 or more, depending on location, travel time and type of equipment. 3  Total costs will depend on the size and type of excavation project, as well as site-specific conditions. Although most excavation companies hire out a machine and operator on an hourly basis ($40-$150 or more an hour) for a wide variety or work, they typically bid on residential excavation for the entire project based on the number of yards of dirt to be moved.