Landslip Risk Assessments

Investigations into Landslip/Landslide Risk and Slope stability can be required for a number of reasons.

These assessments are typically carried out when signs of a landslip or landslide are present, or if one has already occurred.

Smolders Geotechnical can visit site to conduct an inspection/investigation, and based on our findings we can provide further advice and recommendations regarding the appropriate next steps, which may include engineering controls, the establishment of exclusion zones, or specific earthworks etc.

We have expertise in advising and investigating landslip and slope stability matters for a range of clients including local government, state/federal departments, insurers/loss adjusters, architects, building designers and private clients.

Investigations for Erosion Management Overlays (EMOs) are set by local councils to manage erosion and landslip risks before a proposed development can go ahead. These assessments are generally conducted in accordance with the Australian Geomechanics Society’s, Guidelines for Landslide Risk Management 2007 and the relevant local government EMO schedule.

EMO’s differ from council to council and such the requirements, triggers and thresholds may vary. Generally, a property has been included within an EMO as the area has been mapped as being susceptible to landslip or slope stability issues. These may include incidence of previous instability, similarities between the site and that of other local sites where issues have occurred and soil type and slope angle. It is important to note that sometimes the steepest slopes don’t necessarily represent the greatest risk.

If your property falls under an EMO, you’ll likely need a geotechnical assessment and/or landslip risk assessment to get planning approval for a new build, extension, or construction project.

The Geotechnical Assessment Report provides an overview of the site’s stability and states whether further assessment (i.e. Landslip Risk Assessment) is required. In some cases, if no risks are found, you may only require this assessment.

The process starts with a desktop study, where we review geological maps, past landslide records, and site conditions like rainfall and slope topography. Next, we conduct an on-site inspection and Geotechnical Investigation to check ground conditions, stability, groundwater, drainage, and any signs of previous or existing slope instability onsite or adjacent properties.

Our highly qualified and experienced geotechnical engineers/engineering geologists will:

• Review background information, including geological maps and past landslip records.
• Inspect the site for visible signs of instability, such as site geomorphology, cracks, bulging, tilting trees, or evident of previous landslip or slope instability.
• Assess factors like slope gradient, soil type, drainage, and groundwater conditions.
• Undertake geotechnical drilling onsite to appropriate depths using our specialist drilling and testing equipment. Generally, we undertake testing to a depth in the range of 5-10m dependant on access, soil types and conditions.

If your site has been assessed as having no risk of landslip then generally no further investigation or reporting is required. If automatic triggers are identified or potential risks are present, further analysis is required to gain planning approval in the form of a Landslip Risk Assessment.

Landslip/Landslide Risk Assessment, where we assess the likelihood, consequences, and risks associated with potential ground movement on your site with regard to the relevant proposal and existing infrastructure.

Further on from the Geotechnical Assessment we use the information gathered to calculate and demonstrate potential hazards and their likelihood and consequence. Based on this, we propose practical mitigation measures to reduce or manage those risks. These might include retaining walls, improved drainage, soil stabilisation, or vegetation management, and compile everything into a comprehensive report for council submission.

It is important to note that dependant on which local government area you are in, the thresholds for acceptable or tolerable level of risk may vary, as is the risk level compared to what is being proposed. Developments such as Schools, Hospitals and Critical Infrastructure have lower acceptable risk thresholds than say a Colourbond Shed on private property.

Whether you require a Geotechnical Assessment or Landslip Risk Assessment, we compile everything into a comprehensive geotechnical report for council approval. All reports must be must be signed off by geotechnical professionals with registered/chartered status in this specific area of expertise. We hold the required, hard-earned registration, experience, and signoffs for any EMO reports and landslip investigations.

When you choose Smolders Geotechnical, your site investigation will be carried out by a qualified experience engineering geologists/geotechnical engineers with local expertise, ensuring a thorough and accurate assessment.

Smolders Geotechnical is fully insured with Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance, and we comply with all relevant Australian Standards and AGS Guidelines.

We also deliver a full suite of other Geotechnical services and testing.

• All work is carried out by qualified engineering geologists or geotechnical engineers.
• Fully insured with Professional Indemnity and Public Liability coverage.
• Extensive experience with residential and commercial developments.
• We offer a wide range of drilling rigs and equipment to suit any site conditions.
• Members of the Foundations and Footing Society Victoria, Australian Geomechanics Society, and the Australian Institute of Geoscientists.
• Fast, responsive, and comprehensive service.
• Expertise with challenging and tight-access sites.
• Your first step to achieving the best outcome for your build.

Our Services Include:

• Soil Testing/Site Classification Reports to AS2870:2011
• Geotechnical Assessments and Landslip Risk Assessments for EMO
• Full Geotechnical Site Assessments
• Basement Investigations
• Saturated Hydraulic Conductivity Testing
• Land Capability Assessments (LCA)
• Footing Probes
• Bushfire Attack Levels, Wind Load Ratings