What a Utility Locating Service Website Should Actually Do

Remove the Confusion First

Most people looking for a utility locating service are already confused.

They called 811. They were told private lines are not covered. A contractor needs marks before digging. A property owner was told to "get a private locate" with no explanation.

A utility locating service website should clear that confusion quickly.

This post covers what a private utility locating service website should actually do to help customers understand the service and take the next step.

Clearly Explain What You Locate and What You Do Not

This is the most important part.

Your private utility locating website should clearly explain:

• What public utilities are
• What private utilities are
• What 811 covers
• What private locators handle

Many customers have never heard the term "private utility" before.

Clear explanations prevent bad calls and frustration.

Explain Who Typically Needs Private Locating

Help customers recognize themselves.

Common cases include:

• Commercial properties
• Industrial sites
• Farms and ag facilities
• Campuses
• Apartment complexes
• Older residential properties
• New construction beyond the meter

If someone sees their situation listed, they are more likely to call.

List the Types of Utilities You Can Locate

Be specific.

Your underground utility locating service website should list:

• Electric
• Gas
• Water
• Sewer
• Communications
• Fiber
• Irrigation
• Site lighting

If you use certain methods, you can mention them:

• Electromagnetic utility locating
• Ground penetrating radar (GPR)

Avoid overexplaining. Just be clear.

Set Expectations About Accuracy and Limitations

Utility locating is not perfect.

A good utility locator website sets realistic expectations:

• Marks are estimates
• Verification may be required
• Depth is not always guaranteed
• Conditions affect results

Honesty here builds trust and avoids disputes later.

Make Scheduling and Response Time Clear

Construction utility locating is often time sensitive.

Your website should explain:

• Typical turnaround times
• Emergency or rush options if offered
• What information you need to schedule a locate

Clear process steps reduce back-and-forth calls.

Make Contact Simple and Fast

People searching for "private utility locator near me" usually need one now.

Your site should include:

• Click-to-call phone number
• Simple contact form
• Email if used
• Service area clearly listed

Do not hide contact information.

Explain Where You Work

Utility locate services are often regional.

Your website should clearly list:

• Counties or cities served
• States if applicable
• Travel limits if any

This helps customers self-qualify before calling.

Mobile Friendly Is Critical

Most locate requests start on a phone.

Your website should:

• Load fast
• Use large text and buttons
• Avoid clutter
• Make calling easy

Speed matters when crews are waiting.

Look Legit and Professional

Trust matters in underground line locating.

Helpful signals on your utility locating company website include:

• Certifications or training
• Years of experience
• Industries served
• Clear explanation of liability and scope

You do not need flash. You need clarity and professionalism.

Offer a Simple Way to Request a Locate

Some customers prefer a form.

A short form can collect:

• Site address
• Type of work
• Timeline
• Contact info

Keep it simple and accessible.

If Your Own Website Needs Work

If you run a utility locating service and your own website does not do these things, you are losing calls to competitors with clearer sites.

I offer free test sites so you can see a clearer layout before committing to anything.

No sales pitch. Just a working example built for your business.

Request a free test site here.

Final Thoughts

A good utility locating service website does one main thing.

It removes confusion.

When customers understand what private locating is, what you can find, and how to reach you, the site is doing its job.