Question 1

What does Ontario require when digging beside a neighbour's house?

Accepted Answer

When excavation may affect the stability of an adjacent building, Ontario's construction regulation (O. Reg. 213/91, s. 229) requires that an engineer specify the precautions in writing before the work begins. That is the rule that changes the job when you are digging close to a shared lot line or a neighbour's foundation. Before anyone puts a shovel in the ground Ontario's Underground Infrastructure Notification System Act, 2012 requires a locate request before any digging starts.

Question 2

Who is responsible for trench safety on a Kanata waterproofing dig?

Accepted Answer

The contractor is responsible for trench safety on an exterior waterproofing dig in Kanata. Ontario's construction regulation, O. Reg. 213/91, places that duty on the constructor at the site, not the homeowner. Before anyone breaks ground, Ontario's Underground Infrastructure Notification System Act, 2012 requires a locate request. Ontario Dig Authority asks for it at least 5 business days before digging starts. The contractor, as the excavator on a hired job, submits that request.

Question 3

Does Ontario's Code say what backfill can touch a waterproofed wall?

Accepted Answer

Ontario's Building Code does address this. Clause 9.12.3 sets out what backfill placed against a foundation wall must meet. The requirements cover three things. The backfill must be placed so it does not damage the wall, the drain tile, any insulation, or the waterproofing or dampproofing membrane. Within 600 mm of the foundation, it must be free of debris and boulders larger than 250 mm. And it must be graded to prevent drainage toward the foundation after settling.

Question 4

What happens if a waterproofing dig in Ottawa hits a buried line?

Accepted Answer

Striking a buried line during a waterproofing excavation is a safety emergency first and a legal matter second. If a gas line is hit, leave the area immediately and call emergency services from a safe place. The same applies if you smell gas, see a severed cable, or notice water near any electrical source. Do not re-enter the excavation.

Digging & Locates

What does Ontario require when digging beside a neighbour's house?

Who is responsible for trench safety on a Kanata waterproofing dig?

Does Ontario's Code say what backfill can touch a waterproofed wall?

What happens if a waterproofing dig in Ottawa hits a buried line?