grading work & contractors

[44trxfun]

Several months ago, I posted an inquiry about working with a contractor to do some ditch work adjacent to a town road here in Chautauqua County, NY. The project has changed somewhat and now consists mostly of adding a few crossdrains to, and regrading (maybe with some additional surfacing) my ~350 foot driveway. Also, my contractor suggested trenching in some 4" perf pipe and covering same with washed gravel, geofabric, and fill to provide a more long-term solution to some drainage issues.

My questions deal with homeowner precautions and any requirements that the State or County might have regarding this type of work. Is the typical contract for flat rate or hourly or is there no such thing as "typical"? I've checked with the Town and they have no permitting or other requirement. At the County or State Level, are contractors REQUIRED to be licensed or insured? I'm aware of the "One Call NY" requirement to alert utility companies, but are there any other things I should be aware of?

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Will_C]

My brother is an excavating contractor that does work like you mention, along with lot preparation and septic systems. I know he has a DBA on file, and most important, he is fully insured. That seems to be the litmus test with contractors, there are many guys with equipment, but not all that many small contractors with insurance.
In regards to pricing, he works both ways, depending on the job. Normally on a project like your roadway, he charges materials and an hourly rate. He does so many septic systems that he is comfortable charging a flat rate. If he has not done busines with a customer before, he often requires payment for materials up front.
Will

 

[Soundguy]

I know in florida, a GC has to be state registered or certified.. and have the proper license as such.. and insurance.

I would guess it is -similar- in your state.

Soundguy