definition
strict definition
site preparation
Related terms: excavation · site clearance · site works · clearing
Clearance, excavation, or other preparation of a construction site before the first foundation element is installed.
Site preparation is the first phase of construction-related activity for a structure. It includes clearance and excavation of the site.
The activities of site preparation do not count as construction, because no part of the structure is installed yet. This phase ends as soon as the first physical element of the foundations is installed.
The work changes the site in preparation for the structure. The boundary with foundation work is the installation of the first physical part of the structure itself.