Excavation is the most critical phase of any residential construction or repair project in Western New York. In this first person homeowner focused guide, I break down the most common types of excavation work needed in Batavia, Oakfield, and Albion New York, explaining how local soil conditions, drainage challenges, and freeze thaw cycles impact foundations, driveways, septic systems, and utilities. This article helps homeowners understand what proper excavation looks like and why doing it right the first time protects their investment.