Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Welcome to the S & A Hodgson Plant Hire FAQ page. Below, you'll find answers to common questions about our plant hire services, areas we cover, and how we can support your project.
General Questions
What services do S & A Hodgson Plant Hire provide?
At S & A Hodgson Plant Hire, we offer a comprehensive range of plant hire and groundwork services to support projects of all sizes across Cumbria. Our core services include:
- Operated Plant Hire - We provide excavators, diggers, dumpers, and other machinery with skilled, CPCS-qualified operators, ensuring safe and efficient work on site.
- Groundworks & Site Preparation - From foundations and footings to drainage and utilities, we handle all aspects of groundwork preparation for domestic and commercial builds.
- Landscaping & Garden Clearance - We support landscaping contractors and homeowners with services such as land levelling, tree stump removal, and garden clearance.
- Driveway & Access Road Construction - Whether it's a private gravel drive or a reinforced access road, we have the tools and know-how to deliver durable surfaces.
- Agricultural and Rural Contracting - We also work with farmers and landowners on ditching, drainage, field access and other land maintenance tasks.
We tailor our services to suit the specific needs of each project, and all our machinery is well-maintained, safety-checked, and ready to perform in demanding conditions.
Is your plant hire service available with an operator?
Yes, all of our plant hire equipment is only available with a fully qualified and experienced operator. Our operated plant hire service is ideal for customers who prefer a hands-off approach or do not have the necessary licences or experience to operate heavy machinery themselves.
Our operators are CPCS- or NPORS-certified, ensuring high standards of safety, professionalism, and efficiency on every job. With years of hands-on experience in a range of environments—from tight residential spaces to large construction sites—they can carry out complex groundwork and excavation tasks with precision and care.
Hiring with an operator offers several benefits:
- Saves time and labour costs
- Ensures work is completed to professional standards
- Reduces the risk of damage or delays
- Eliminates the need for operator training or insurance on your side
Whether you need assistance with foundations, drainage, landscaping, or demolition, our team is equipped to get the job done right. We serve customers across Cumbria and the North West of England and are happy to provide free advice or site visits to determine the best approach for your project.
What size machinery do you have available?
We offer a wide selection of operated plant equipment including mini diggers, micro diggers, 3-tonne to 8-tonne excavators, dumpers and more. Please contact us to discuss your specific project needs.
Do you offer short-term and long-term hire options?
Yes, we offer flexible hire terms tailored to your project’s duration—whether it's for a day, a week, or several months.
For more information, please feel free to contact us directly. We look forward to working with you.
Coverage Area & Local Services
What areas do you cover?
S&A Hodgson Plant Hire is based in Cumbria, and we proudly serve clients throughout the region. Our main service areas include:
- Carlisle
- Penrith
- Kendal
- Grange-over-Sands
- Ulverston
- Cartmel
- Keswick
- Workington
- Whitehaven
- Cockermouth
- Wigton
- Maryport
- Aspatria
- Brampton
- Wetheral
- Greystoke
- Longtown
We cover both rural and urban areas and are happy to travel across Cumbria for domestic and commercial projects. If you're unsure whether we operate in your location, just give us a call on 07836782707
Do you work with homeowners as well as construction companies?
Yes, we provide plant hire and groundwork services to both domestic and commercial customers. Whether you’re preparing for a garden landscaping project or managing a large-scale construction site, we have the right equipment and expertise.
For more information, please feel free to contact us directly. We look forward to working with you.
Booking & Safety
How do I book plant hire?
Simply call us on 07836782707 or complete our contact form and we’ll get back to you with availability and pricing.
Are your operators and equipment insured?
Yes, all our machinery is regularly maintained and our operators are fully trained, licensed, and insured to ensure the highest safety standards on site.
Do you provide site surveys or advice before starting a job?
Yes, we’re happy to visit your site, assess your requirements, and provide expert advice before you commit to a hire or project.
For more information, please feel free to contact us directly. We look forward to working with you.
Need more help?
If your question isn’t listed above, feel free to contact us directly. Our friendly team is happy to help with any enquiry.
S & A Hodgson are a family owned business operating a fleet of modern plant, diggers and excavators available for everything from small scale domestic projects to use on large scale projects and contracts.
Opening Times
Monday-Friday: 7:30am - 6:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am - 12noon
By Request
Sunday: Closed
Get In Touch
Phone: 01539 552458 / 07836 782707
Email: [email protected]
Address: Witherslack, Grange-Over-Sands, Cumbria