Call Before you Dig!
This is probably stating the obvious, but be sure to call the Utility Notification Center before doing any digging on the property. This is to protect you from accidentally damaging a power, water, sewer or other utility line. And, of course, to keep you from getting killed.
Another point mentioned by Northwest Natural: be sure to call the Utility Notification CEnter before remodeling so you don’t accidentally cover up their utilities. It’s expensive to fix (at your cost) and a real headache.
Here’s the number in Oregon: 1-800-332-2344