Business Details
50 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Excavation Services in Kelowna
Established in 1976, our company has grown through three generations of dedicated service, beginning with Tom Richardson's vision and evolving into a trusted name in excavation and utility services. We specialize in mechanical and hydro excavation, waterline and sewer repair, septic system installation, and catch basin maintenance, serving stratas, subdivisions, and commercial clients across the Okanagan Valley. Our team combines decades of experience with certified expertise, including a registered ROWP on staff, to deliver precise and reliable solutions for projects of all sizes. Backed by partnerships with CWK, RDCO, FortisBC, and other key regional organizations, we maintain a 24/7 emergency response capability to address critical infrastructure needs. From foundation digging to directional drilling and large-scale municipal projects like the Kelowna International Airport expansion, our commitment to meticulous attention to detail ensures every job meets the highest standards of quality and safety.The third-generation leadership of Alex and his wife continues our legacy of combining local knowledge with cutting-edge equipment, including hydrovac trucks and specialized excavation machinery, to exceed client expectations. Our affiliation with ASSTBC and BCOSSA underscores our adherence to industry best practices in septic installation and maintenance. With a workforce rooted in the rugged Okanagan landscape, we pride ourselves on being a team of skilled professionals who approach every challenge with determination and technical excellence. Whether handling residential pool excavations or complex utility installations, we maintain transparent communication and prioritize customer satisfaction from project inception to completion. This enduring philosophy has earned us repeat clients and a reputation as a dependable partner for both planned and emergency excavation needs.
Services
Hydro Excavation
Waterline Repair
Septic System Installation
Sewer Repair
Catch Basin Services
Directional Drilling
Basement Excavation
Pool Digging
Rockwall Construction
Emergency Excavation
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- Three generations of excavation expertise since 1976
- 24/7 emergency response capability for critical infrastructure
- Certified ROWP on staff for septic system compliance
- Meticulous attention to detail on every project size
- Proven track record with municipal projects like Kelowna Airport expansion
Associations and certifications
- ASSTBC
- BCOSSA
What people say
24/7 emergency service
Reliable and affordable
Experienced team
Meticulous attention to detail
Three generations of expertise
Services
Hydro Excavation
Our hydrovac services combine high-pressure water and vacuum technology to safely excavate around underground utilities. This non-destructive method prevents damage to existing infrastructure while achieving precise results for utility installations, potholing, and slot trenching. With specialized equipment and trained operators, we deliver efficient solutions for both planned projects and emergency repairs.
Septic System Installation
We provide complete septic system solutions including design, installation, and maintenance. Our certified ROWP technicians ensure compliance with local regulations while implementing durable systems for residential and commercial properties. Services include tank placement, leach field construction, and ongoing servicing to maintain optimal functionality in various soil conditions.
Waterline Repair
Our team specializes in locating and repairing waterline breaks using trenchless technology and traditional excavation methods. We handle both residential and municipal water main repairs with minimal disruption to property. Emergency services include 24/7 response for burst pipes and leak detection using advanced acoustic equipment.
Catch Basin Services
We maintain municipal and commercial stormwater systems through comprehensive catch basin cleaning and inspection. Our services include jetting, debris removal, and structural assessments to prevent flooding and ensure proper drainage. Contracted by AIM Roads, we service routes from Osoyoos to Vernon with specialized equipment for flume and basin maintenance.
Directional Drilling
Our horizontal directional drilling capabilities allow for underground utility installation without surface disruption. This method suits road crossings, environmentally sensitive areas, and complex urban environments. Using advanced guidance systems, we achieve accurate bore paths for water, sewer, and gas line installations while maintaining ground integrity.
People
Tom Richardson
Founder
Established Approved Services in 1976 with a single truck and backhoe. Pioneered excavation operations in the Okanagan Valley, building foundational expertise in utility installation and repair.
Steve Richardson
Former Owner
Joined the company full-time in 1983, expanding operations and reputation. Took full ownership in 2005, growing the business into a regional excavation leader with municipal contracts.
Alex Richardson
Current Owner
Third-generation leader taking operational control in 2024. Continues family legacy with modernized equipment and expanded emergency response capabilities while maintaining core values of reliability and affordability.
Colleen
Office Manager
Key administrative leader ensuring operational efficiency and client communication. Manages project coordination and maintains organizational structure across all excavation and maintenance services.
Tracey
Operations Coordinator
Supports daily operations and project logistics. Works closely with field teams to maintain scheduling accuracy and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements for all excavation projects.
Questions
What excavation services do you offer?
We provide hydrovac excavation, waterline repair, septic system installation, sewer connections, catch basin maintenance, directional drilling, and emergency excavation services for residential and commercial clients.
Are you available for emergency projects?
Yes, we operate 24/7 emergency response teams equipped to handle urgent excavation needs across the Okanagan Valley region.
How many years have you been in business?
Approved Services has operated continuously since 1976, providing three generations of excavation expertise in the Okanagan Valley.
What areas do you service?
We serve Kelowna, West Kelowna, Osoyoos to Vernon corridor, Highway 33 to Big White, and Highway 97C to Pennask Summit areas.
Do you handle municipal infrastructure projects?
Yes, we've completed major projects like WR Bennett Bridge work, Kelowna Airport expansion, and maintain contracts with AIM Roads for catch basin cleaning.
What makes your company different?
Our combination of three-generation experience, certified ROWP technicians, 24/7 emergency capability, and specialized equipment sets us apart in excavation services.
