Professional land clearing is an important step in developing a parcel for residential or commercial construction. Before you start this work, though, it’s helpful to understand the average price for land clearing in Missouri. This allows you to set an accurate budget and prevent surprises when getting the final bill.
Learn more about how to estimate the cost of this work on your property.
Average Costs for Clearing a Piece of Property in Missouri
The average cost for clearing an acre of land in Missouri is about $3,000. However, it’s not unusual for the price to fit in a range of $1,000 to $5,000 per acre. Properties with multiple hazards present may run upwards of $10,000 or more per acre to clear.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Clearing Property
Because of the wide range of potential costs for property clearing, it’s challenging for novices to create a budget for the project. Just like you’d request an accurate estimate to build a house from professional builders, you’ll want to ask site clearing professionals for some hard numbers so you know where things stand.
The following should be on your radar when considering land clearing services.
Total Area That Needs Clearing
The extent of the area you want cleared is a major factor. If you’re clearing 10 acres, you’ll pay significantly more than when clearing one or two acres.
Some people may only need a trail cleared for hiking or creating a makeshift road. A narrow trail costs far less to clear than the parcel as a whole.
Density and Size of the Trees
Larger trees that are tightly packed together can be difficult to clear with machinery. If the trees are close to existing buildings or fences, the workers might use chainsaws and other manual tools to guide them to the ground safely. Such work takes longer and drives up the estimate.
Terrain Found on the Property
Property that has severe hills or multiple creeks and ponds will take longer to clear. The land clearing company might need special equipment to finish the job, which increases the cost. Flat ground covered mostly in grass costs less to clear because it takes less time.
Your Plans for Using the Space
Before developing an estimate, the property clearing company should discuss your plans for the space with you. By understanding how you want to use the cleared land, the company can make suggestions on clearing techniques that might save you some money.
Location of the Parcel
If the property you need cleared is in a remote area, your estimate might be higher. Some companies charge extra if your parcel is a certain distance from the company’s headquarters. You might incur a mileage or fuel surcharge fee.
Urgency of the Work
Missouri experiences all four seasons, but cold or hot temperatures don’t affect the ability to successfully do land clearing work. However, these companies are usually less busy during winter than in summer. If you schedule the work in winter, you might receive a discount.
If your project is urgent and needs to be done in the next few days, you’ll pay more than if you have flexibility regarding the date of the work.
Ask for a Written Estimate and Contract To Lock in the Price
When you want an accurate estimate for land clearing services, ask a professional for help. Those with the proper experience and know-how have completed many such projects in the past and understand the time and machinery needed, making it easier to come up with an accurate estimate.
To make sure they stand behind their estimate, ask for it in writing. Additionally, you should ask the company to provide you with a written contract before beginning the work. The contract should explain what exactly will occur, how much of the property will be cleared, when payments are due, and what you will pay. A written contract protects both parties and ensures everyone understands the process.
An initial quote won’t necessarily anticipate unforeseen circumstances, such as finding boulders hiding in tall weeds. The written contract should spell out how the estimate may change if and when such issues arise.
Ridgeline Land Management Provides Free Cost Estimates for All Our Land Clearing Services
Although you can roughly estimate your site preparation expenses in Missouri, you probably don’t have the experience necessary to calculate a fully accurate estimate. The experts at Ridgeline Land Management can explain all the land clearing cost factors and give you an estimate you can trust.
Our tree and brush removal rates are based on the condition of the property. We inspect the space and listen to your plans for using it before giving you an estimate. For a free price quote, contact us today at (314) 860-8130.
