Dealing with Buried Rocks Under New Sod: Removal vs. Soil Building

The Situation

Second-season Bermuda sod shows dying/dormant spots over large rocks buried 4–5 inches deep, likely left by the builder. Rocks span 5+ feet across. Digging is impractical.

Options

1. Remove the rocks. If the builder placed them, you may have a legal claim for removal at their expense. Check neighbors' yards for similar issues.
2. Build up soil depth. If subsoil drainage is good, add 8–10 inches of quality topsoil over the rocks. Grass roots need this depth to thrive.
3. Amend subsoil if clay. If soil under rocks is clay, incorporate organic matter (compost, bark mulch) to improve drainage before adding topsoil.

Key Consideration

Grass roots cannot penetrate rock. Either the rocks go, or the root zone must be raised above them. Legal recourse depends on proof of builder responsibility versus pre-existing conditions.