FAQs

With many years of locating experience specializing in locating all types of underground utilities, including gas, water, hydro and cable services, we’re confident that we are among the best and most accurate utility locators in Ontario. Our staff is professional and courteous and we guarantee your experience with Locate It will be a positive one.

Public vs. Private Utilities?

Public utility companies are responsible to locate only their facilities. This includes companies like Hydro One, Reliance, Enbridge Gas, Rogers and Bell.

Private utilities are the responsibility of the contractor or property owner to mark out. This could be the power from the CST to the building or streetlights, gas, fibre optics, irrigation, pools, detached garages, sheds, signage, etc.

Without hiring a private locator, there’s no way to know for sure what is all below ground.

What is a CST?

On commercial properties there is usually a CST (Customer Serviced Transformer) that hydro companies will not mark out. They only locate up to the CST because that is where the Hydro meter is.

It is the responsibility of either the contractor or property owner to have this located. Failing to do so can result in electricution and major property damage.

Can I hire an electrician to do a locate?

You can, however locating is a skilled trade. Missing a line can be extremely costly and dangerous. It is recommended that you choose an experienced locator such as Locate It who can locate more than just electrical.

Do I need private locates?

Regardless of who you choose for private locates the answer is YES. If you are digging on private property, private locates are highly recommended to maintain the highest level of safety. Not getting private locates could result in costly damage or serious injury.

What if I’m only digging 12 inches deep?

Buried utilities can be just inches below and damaging electrical or fibre optics can be expensive and dangerous. It’s just not worth the risk to not get private locates.

Why get a locate?

The alternative can cost time, money and lives. It is in the best interest of the excavator to retain a private utility locator regardless of the information provided by Utility Companies or property owners to ensure the safety of the crews engaged in the excavation and to prevent damage to personnel, property and utility lines. Excavators are required by law to exercise due diligence in this regard.

I called Call Before You Dig. Is that enough?

No, not all utility owners are registered with Ontario One Call. Our One Call Service notifies all other utility owners on your behalf. We highly recommend using our service as we can also provide valuable information to assist you in your project. We always want to promote safe excavation, which is why you can find the links to other utility owners websites on our website.

How much notice is required for locates?

Locate It strives to serve our customers as quickly as possible, typically within 24 to 48 hours. Same day service is possible. However in the busy season Public Utility Companies can take up to 3 weeks so please try to provide as much notice and as much information as possible prior to excavation.