Is undeveloped land unbuildable? Not quite.
Construction projects take all kinds of forms. Aside from residential neighborhoods, there are also shopping centers, office buildings, industrial lots, parking lots, roads, and driveways. One does not begin building with just the dirt available. There is undeveloped vs. developed land, and it is better to build after land development. Why can’t you build on undeveloped land?
The Risks of Undeveloped Land
Improper Grading
Drainage for rainwater and snow is more complex than one might think. It involves the entire slope of the land, not just the utilities in place. The land must be contoured, or “graded,” to let stormwater runoff, melted snow, etc., drain into the nearest stormwater management system. Otherwise, puddles can form that would damage various structures’ foundations.
Unstable Soil
The soil itself needs to be strong enough to support construction, also. Not all soil is suitable for keeping foundations stable. The project requires a soil test to understand the nature of the virgin soil and if it needs adjusting with the addition of other materials, like soil cement. The construction workers will also need to compact the soil to prepare it for the foundation. Otherwise, the foundation could crack, warp, or sink over time.
Trees, Shrubs, and Plants in the Way
Practically speaking, it would be pretty hard to build a road if there are many trees covering your intended project site. You would not be able to pour the asphalt unless you remove the trees. Site clearing is a part of land development; having too many trees, plants, and shrubs on the property is an obvious reason you can’t build on undeveloped land.
Lack of Erosion Control
Some properties might also need retaining walls or structures to prevent landslides. You will have to know where these points are to design the construction site appropriately. Without planning for erosion control, you risk significant damage to the environment, commercial property, and lives.
Solutions for Undeveloped Land
One should not build on undeveloped land without knowing the risks. Thankfully, Reliable Contracting can take your construction project in stride. Reliable knows all about the land development process for various types of construction projects, such as industrial parking lots, utilities, airport runways, and much more.
ABOUT RELIABLE CONTRACTING
Reliable is dedicated to delivering quality products, displaying professionalism within the firm, seeking new opportunities for expansion and profitability, and providing an environment for individual success. If you have a commercial or residential construction project that you need taken care of, please contact Anne Arundel County’s largest site-work contractor today by calling 410-987-0313 or visiting our website. You can also follow Reliable Contracting on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Twitter!
Reliable Contracting Company serves the following and surrounding counties: Annapolis, Queen Anne’s, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Calvert, Caroline, Charles, Howard, Prince George, St. Mary’s, Talbot, and Washington D.C.