It is often a requirement of the local council that a Geotechnical Report or Soil Report be provided for a building development as part of the Building Consent process. It is common for the report to be referred to as simply the geotech report.
This requirement exists to ensure that the development proceeds without the risk of foundation problems or stability concerns. A Geotechnical Investigation Report also provides the structural engineer or architect with information to help in the design process.
Common developments where a geotechnical report may be required include:
- Land Development – small and large scale subdivision
- Residential – multi-storey buildings, new dwelling, additions and alterations, remedial Works
- Commercial –
- Public Works and Infrastructure – roading, footpaths, pipelines
The Geotechnical Report usually requires a site investigation of the property to be carried out. This typically involves drilling one or more boreholes on the site. These boreholes may be drilled by hand using a hand auger or they may be drilled using a machine drilling rig. The soil samples taken from the borehole are described in engineering terminology on a borehole log. Strength tests of the soil are usually undertaken within the borehole during the drilling process. Other laboratory tests may also be carried out on the samples. The results of the boreholes and testing will be used to assess the stability and foundation conditions of the site.
The geotechnical investigation report will present the findings of the site investigation, outline the assessment of the ground conditions and provide recommendations for building foundations, earthworks or retaining walls.
As well as supporting the design and consent process for buildings, geotechnical reports may also be required for earthworks or land stability purposes.
If you require a geotechnical report or would like further information, please contact us.
