Top 10 Excavators in Sydney, New South Wales
There are currently 10 highly-rated excavation businesses in Sydney, New South Wales listed on TradeRefer, with an average Google rating of 5.0★ across 175 verified reviews. The 10 listed below are ranked from highest to lowest rating, all ABN-verified and community-recommended.
Ranked #2026
By Google Rating
5.0★ Avg Rating
175 Google reviews
100% Verified
ABN & Licence Checked
10 Businesses
In Sydney
Top 10 Excavation in Sydney — Ranked by Customer Rating
Compare the highest-rated excavation in Sydney, New South Wales. All businesses listed are ABN-verified and surfaced without paid placement.
ABC Earthworks
Looking for the most reliable earthmovers and excavators Sydney has to offer? Contact ABC Earthworks. We are the trade earthmovers to call!
Hawkins Civil Contracting
Hawkins Civil Contracting is a top-rated excavation business serving Smeaton Grange, NSW. With a 5-star rating from 46 reviews, they are one of the most trusted excavation providers in the area. Specialising in professional excavation services, Hawkins Civil Contracting delivers quality workmanship and reliable service. Contact them today for a free quote.
Sydney Excavation and Earthworks
Sydney Excavations & Earthworks are your premier excavation contractor in the region.
Northern Beaches Earthmoving
Experienced excavation contractors in Sydney - Northern Beaches Earthmoving. Wide range of machine sizes & attachments enables us to complete of all types of excavation job.
Sloane Plumbing & Excavations
Your Local Plumbing And Excavation Experts providing same day plumbing services. We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services, even on holidays. So, if you have a plumbing emergency any time day or night, call us.
Rockpine Mini Excavation Services Sydney
Quality tight access excavation, demolition & site preparation services proudly serving Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, Inner West, Sutherland Shire and Greater Western Sydney.
Jabbs Excavations Australia Pty Ltd
Jabbs Excavations Australia Pty Ltd provides expert professional excavation services in Beverly Hills, NSW. Rated 5 stars by 6 customers, they are known for quality work and professional service. Get in touch with Jabbs Excavations Australia Pty Ltd for a free, no-obligation quote.
Little Aussie Digger Co
Tight Access Excavation Sydney Swimming Pools, Site Levelling, Clearing and Rock Breaking call Little Aussie Digger Co mobile 0408 612 908
Botany Excavations
Botany Excavations offers professional excavation services in Banksmeadow, NSW. With 3 customer reviews and a focus on quality workmanship, they serve homes and businesses across the Banksmeadow area. Contact Botany Excavations for a free quote.
Thornleigh Excavations
Thornleigh Excavations
How Much Do Excavation Cost in Sydney?
Pricing data based on Australian industry averages for New South Wales. Always get 2–3 written quotes.
Typical Range
$90–$180
/hr
After-Hours Rate
$270
Emergency callout
Avg Hourly Rate
$135
Sydney market average
Prices are estimates only. Always request a written quote before authorising any work.
Excavation Licensing Requirements in New South Wales
In NSW, excavation on residential sites where building work exceeds $20,000 requires a contractor licence. Structural excavation requires engineering sign-off. Dial Before You Dig (1100) notification is legally required before all excavation.
How to Choose the Best Excavation in Sydney
Use this checklist before hiring any excavation in Sydney, New South Wales.
- 1
Verify their electrical licence is current at your state's electrical safety authority (e.g. Energy Safe Victoria, NSW Fair Trading).
- 2
Confirm they carry public liability insurance of at least $5 million — ask to see the certificate.
- 3
Get 2–3 written quotes for any job over $500. A written quote protects both parties and clarifies the full scope.
- 4
Check their Google and TradeRefer ratings — look for consistent reviews mentioning punctuality, clean workmanship, and clear communication.
- 5
Ask whether they'll provide a Certificate of Compliance (electrical safety certificate) on completion, as required by law in most states.
Frequently Asked Questions — Excavation in Sydney
How much does excavation cost in Australia?
Machine excavation (bobcat or excavator hire with operator) costs $90–$180/hr. Site cut and fill for a house slab typically costs $5,000–$20,000 depending on volume and soil type. Rock excavation costs significantly more ($200–$400/hr) due to equipment requirements. Always get quotes based on the specific scope.
Do I need to check for underground services before excavating?
Yes — this is legally required. Call Dial Before You Dig (1100 or dial1before.com.au) at least 2 business days before any excavation. They'll provide plans of underground water, gas, electricity, and telecommunications lines. Hitting an underground service can be dangerous and you may be liable for repair costs.
What is cut and fill excavation?
Cut and fill is the process of cutting into a sloped site to create a level building pad, using the excavated material to fill lower areas. It's the most common method for sloped residential blocks. Engineers design the fill compaction requirements and drainage to prevent subsidence.
What equipment is used for residential excavation?
Bobcats (skid-steer loaders) are used for tight access and smaller volumes. Mini-excavators suit confined residential sites. Full-size excavators are used for large volumes, deep trenching, or rock breaking. Tipper trucks remove spoil from site. The right equipment depends on access, volume, and soil type.
How do I dispose of excavated soil in Australia?
Clean fill soil can often be taken to local council-approved fill sites, used on other properties, or advertised free on platforms like Gumtree. Contaminated soil must go to a licensed waste facility. Your excavation contractor usually arranges removal — confirm this is included in the quote.
Top Excavation in Nearby Cities
Find the highest-rated excavation in other cities across New South Wales.
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