What digging a house foundation costs
The cost of digging a house foundation depends on three things: the machine (and how long you keep it), transport to the plot and what happens to the soil. Below is each part, with an example worked out on our rates.
1. The machine and the operator
For an ordinary house on a normal plot, a 5 t mini excavator with a narrow bucket for the footings is enough. Our rate includes the operator for one 8-hour shift: the ZX48U-6 costs RON 800/day. For a basement or hard ground, the 24 t excavator costs RON 2,200/day.
2. Transport
Transport is paid once, both ways: RON 1,500 covers the first 75 km round trip from Alba Iulia; beyond that, the per-km rate is added. See the cost by location.
3. The excavated soil
The soil can stay on the plot, for backfill and landscaping, or be taken away by tipper truck. The second option costs extra (transport and sometimes a disposal fee) and is agreed separately.
Example: mini excavator, 10 days, in Sebeș
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Rent with operator, 10 days | RON 8,000 |
| Narrow bucket | RON 450 |
| Insurance and inspection | RON 550 |
| Transport and trailer | RON 1,900 |
| Total excl. VAT | RON 10,900 |
With the 24 t excavator, the same period costs RON 25,150 excl. VAT. The minimum rental is 10 days; for a well-defined volume of work you can also ask for a price per cubic metre.
How to keep the cost down
- Have the setting-out done when the machine arrives, so the operator is not waiting.
- Keep the soil on site if you need it for backfill.
- Group several jobs in the same period: foundation, utility connections, septic tank, drainage.
Want an estimate for your plot? Call +40 744 66 77 33 or send the foundation plan on WhatsApp. See also Foundation excavation.