Site Preparation Checklist

What “Level” Actually Means

Improper site preparation, specifically unlevel ground, is one of the most common reasons installations are delayed or postponed.

Customers often assume level means “it looks flat”, “it’s close enough”, or “the ground slopes just a little”. For metal structures, the site must be level across the entire physical footprint of the building, not just visually flat to the naked eye.

Why a Level Site Matters

An unlevel foundation or footprint can directly cause:

• Doors and windows that fail to open, close, or operate properly
• Visible gaps in the steel panels
• Severe water or pest intrusion
• Voiding of the manufacturer’s warranties

The structural integrity, strength, and decades-long lifespan of your building depend directly on the foundation meeting these exact level specifications.

Who Is Responsible for Site Prep

All site preparation is 100% the customer’s responsibility. That covers:

• Obtaining all necessary local permits
• Verifying zoning regulations and property setbacks
• Calling 811 to have underground utility lines professionally marked
• Clearing all physical debris, vegetation, and overgrowth from the site
• Ensuring a minimum of 3 feet of level clearance around the perimeter
• Preparing and compacting the leveled gravel, asphalt, or concrete foundation

Crew limits. Installation crews only assemble the pre-engineered metal structure. They do not perform ground preparation, leveling, or excavation.

How Poor Site Prep Delays Installation

If the installation crew arrives and the site is not ready:

• The installation will be postponed
• Additional grading or ground leveling will be required at the customer’s expense
• Crew availability will shift, extending project timelines significantly

Slope and Drainage

The ground directly under the metal structure must be level. The ground surrounding the footprint must slope away to promote proper water runoff. Proper grading prevents water pooling around the building base, soil erosion, foundation shifting, and long-term structural issues.