🏗️ 6 Common Mistakes People Make Before Building on Land — How to Avoid Them
- Ryan Taneja
- Oct 8
- 2 min read
Don’t Break Ground Before You Read This
Buying land and planning your dream property is exciting — but too many people dive in without understanding the ground they’re building on. At Pennington Construction & Land Solutions, we’ve seen the good, the bad, and the downright expensive.
Here are the top mistakes we see landowners make — and how you can avoid them.
1. 🚫 Not Testing the Soil (Perc Test):
Before you can install a septic system, you’ll need to know how well your soil absorbs water. This is done through a perc test, and it’s required by your county’s health department.
The fix: We help coordinate soil testing and walk you through the permitting process — so there are no surprises when it’s time to dig.
2. 🚧 Ignoring Slope or Drainage:
Just because land looks flat doesn’t mean it drains well. Poor grading can lead to foundation damage, flooding, or even failed inspections.
The fix: Our grading services ensure proper water runoff and pad prep, so you’re building on a solid, level base.
3. 🌳 Thinking “Clearing” Just Means Mowing:
Some land needs more than a quick bush hog. Stumps, rocks, and tree roots can interfere with everything from plumbing lines to foundation footings.
The fix: We provide full-service land clearing — including tree removal, stump grinding, and haul-off.
4. 📏 Failing to Plan for Driveway or Access:
We’ve seen new builds go up with no thought for trucks, deliveries, or emergency access. Without a driveway or culvert, your property can be hard to reach (especially in wet conditions).
The fix: Let us design and install your driveway and culverts before the real construction begins.
5. 📝 Skipping Permits or Licensed Work:
Unpermitted septic or utility installs can delay your project, create legal headaches, and cost you thousands to correct.
The fix: We’re licensed septic installers and work directly with local authorities to keep your project moving and up to code.
6. 💸 Hiring the Cheapest Crew Without Checking Experience:
Cheap work often becomes expensive repair. In rural areas, it’s especially important to hire experienced contractors with proper equipment.
The fix: Pennington brings 25+ years of field experience, honest pricing, and a commitment to quality.
Ready to Build the Right Way?
Before you bring in the builders, bring in the team that sets the foundation right.
📞 Call us at 501‑BE‑BUILT (501‑232‑8458)
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