Underground utility mapping requires access to the project area, available utility information, and appropriate locating and mapping technology. Before the investigation begins, it is helpful to provide site plans, utility records, as-built drawings, previous surveys, and project boundaries. Information about the planned excavation or construction work can also help technicians focus the mapping investigation on areas where underground infrastructure may create potential conflicts.

During fieldwork, technicians may use electromagnetic locating equipment, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), GPS technology, surveying equipment, and GIS software to identify and document underground utilities. The process may include tracing electric, gas, water, sewer, telecommunications, and other buried infrastructure, along with visible features such as manholes, valves, utility access points, and connection locations. Site conditions, utility depth, soil composition, surface materials, and accessibility can affect the mapping process.

At Utility Locating & Mapping New Hampshire, we evaluate each project to determine the appropriate utility locating and mapping methods. Underground utility mapping can be combined with Private Utility Locating, GPR Scanning, Utility Marking, Concrete Scanning, and GPS/GIS Utility Mapping to create more comprehensive subsurface documentation. The final mapping information can support construction planning, excavation coordination, engineering, surveying, infrastructure management, and future maintenance.