Gravel Driveway Verification Checklist PDF

Full QC Checklist+

Verify layout/site inputs, subgrade preparation and geotextile fabric, layer construction and compaction, and edging/drainage/maintenance.

✓20 Inspection Points

✓4 Verification Categories

✓Layout & Site Inputs+

Driveway dimensions (length/width, or each section's length/width for an L-shaped layout) confirmed from an actual field measurement or site plan, not assumed
Property line, easement, and any local setback requirement confirmed before finalizing the driveway footprint
Utility locate service called (811 or local equivalent) before any excavation for the driveway or its base
Positive drainage slope and crown (center-high cross-section) planned before finalizing grade
Sub-base and base course materials selected genuinely compact into a stable structural layer, not just a decorative-looking gravel

✓Subgrade Preparation & Geotextile Fabric+

Subgrade compacted and confirmed stable before placing any gravel, not left loose or organic-laden
Geotextile fabric (if included) installed directly on the compacted subgrade, with seams overlapped per the manufacturer's spacing, not butted edge-to-edge
Local frost depth considered for sub-base thickness in cold climates
Wet or soft spots in the subgrade over-excavated and undercut (with extra stone backfill) before fabric placement, not just compacted as-is
Geotextile fabric strength/rating confirmed matches the actual soil bearing conditions, not a generic light-duty fabric used on soft or wet soil

✓Layer Construction & Compaction+

Sub-base compacted in lifts (not dumped and left loose), typically to at least 95% of maximum dry density
Base course (if included) compacted separately from the sub-base, not treated as one combined uncompacted layer
Actual placed depth of each layer spot-checked at multiple points across the driveway, not assumed uniform from the delivered tonnage alone
Surface material confirmed appropriate for the local climate — decomposed-granite-style materials in particular can wash out in wet climates
Compaction equipment sized to the actual layer thickness and driveway area, not a hand tamper stretched across a full-size driveway

✓Edging, Drainage & Maintenance+

Edging/border (if included) installed before the final surface layer is spread, not added afterward
Drainage crown and grade confirmed maintained after construction, not disturbed by later grading or landscaping work
Periodic maintenance (regrading, top-up gravel, weed control) planned for, not treated as a one-time installation
Culvert or cross-drain provided wherever the driveway crosses a drainage swale, ditch line, or natural water path
Dust control considered for a fines-heavy surface material in a dry climate or high-traffic use

Inspection Notes+

Use the latest approved drawings, specifications, and site measurements.

Complete all critical checks before proceeding to the next work stage.

Record deviations and confirm rectification where required.

Inspection Notes

Use the latest approved drawings, specifications, and site measurements.

Complete all critical checks before proceeding to the next work stage.

Record deviations and confirm rectification where required.

Use it after collecting the project inputs and again before approving or closing the relevant work stage.

No. It supports verification but does not replace approved drawings, specifications, codes, manufacturer requirements, or professional inspection.