OUTDOOR
How to Estimate Land Grading
Contractor method for estimating land grading: area, soil type and soil removal.
Grading bids fail on the soil removal and the site access. The per-sq-ft rate is the baseline; the trucking and the drainage plan are where the estimate grows.
THE SHORT ANSWER
How do you estimate land grading?
Measure the area, note soil type (loose $0.45, moderate $0.75, rocky $1.40/sq ft), then price soil removal and labor. The calculator's 5,000 sq ft example totals about $4,610.
Measure the area and the slope
Measure the area to grade and note the current slope and drainage. The goal is positive drainage away from the house — a flat grade is not a finished grade.
Price the soil type
Use about $0.45/sq ft for loose soil, $0.75 for moderate and $1.40 for rocky soil. Rocky or clay-heavy soil adds time and equipment wear.
Price removal and labor
Removing excess soil runs $500 flat. Labor runs $40-$50/hr. Use the Land Grading Cost Calculator to build the full quote.
Check the total
Your total should land within 10% of the calculator output before markup. Add the final grade check with a laser or level — a sloped yard that holds water is a call-back.