Where’s the job?

Scope of Works

• Mark out area and inspect for plants, roots and buried services

• Clear vegetation, weeds, turf and surface debris by hand

• Remove stones and large roots that will block the rotavator

• Rotavate/till soil to roughly 15–25 cm depth with powered rotavator or hand tools where access restricted

• Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure and break up soil clods then rake level

• Wear appropriate PPE and manage dust, oil or fuel safely

• Remove arisings and leave beds ready for planting or stack green waste for separate removal

Typical Cost

Time on Site

Typical jobs take 1–4 hours on site depending on bed size and soil condition; small raised beds 1–2 hours, medium beds 2–4 hours. factors that extend time include stony soil, lots of roots, steep slopes, poor access and wet weather

Questions to Ask Your Tradie

• Do you bring the rotavator and does the price include machine hire

• What depth will you work to and can you adjust for my planting plans

• How will you handle large roots, buried bricks or tree roots

• Is green waste removal included and how will arisings be disposed

• Do you have public liability insurance and references for similar jobs

• What access, parking or prep do you need from me on the day

How to Avoid Surprises

• Ensure clear, level access and remove garden ornaments and pots

• Mark any buried services, irrigation lines or sprinklers

• Reserve parking close to the work area or agree a drop-off point

• Let the trader know of steep slopes, tight gates or steps beforehand

• Confirm whether water supply or electricity will be needed on site