Soil Testing Cost

If you’re planning on building you will need to get a Soil Test done – or a Site Classification Report as it is known in the industry. Soil Tests are an important part of the design and building process, providing integral information on the site and soil conditions present – at Smolders Geotechnical Pty. Ltd. we also provide footing recommendations for the engineer/draftsman/builder so they can design and construct a footing system appropriate to the site and conditions. Soil Tests are conducted in accordance with Australian Standard AS2870-2011 – Residential Slabs and Footings.

What does it cost for a soil test?

The cost of a Soil Test will vary widely dependent on a number of factors. Like most things one size won’t fit all. A standard minimum soil testing price can start at around $500 – $800 (plus GST.) for Greater Melbourne. This covers most projects such as extensions to existing dwellings, new single dwellings, sheds, decks, pools, etc. A normal investigation should include 2-3 boreholes to 1.5-1.8m from surface level.

Your soil test price will go up dependant your proposed development, common situations that arise to fees greater than minimum;

• Sites that have deep filling will sometimes require deeper drilling beyond the normal depths quoted. This is usually charged at a meter rate over what’s included. (fees are approved before drilling commences – you should never receive a bill for works completed without your prior approval)
• If you are completing an upper storey extension or building up against a neighbouring footing you will find that a Footing Probe of those foundations may be required. This is where we would expose, measure and confirm foundation material, condition and bearing of the footing and provide the information so that your engineer can design appropriately. Things that can affect footing probe fees are if there is concrete paving, obstructions or an existing wall in its place. Concrete can be cut for additional fees. Normal fees for footing probes start at $150.00 plus GST.
• Multi-Unit/Townhouse Developments. The increase in fees is usually based on additional testing required (more boreholes) and insurance covers ie. 4 townhouses, that is 4 individual dwellings that need to be covered by the geotechs insurance (greater exposure)
• Your site falls within a designated Erosion Management Overlay (EMO), reports for EMOs need to follow specific guidelines relating to slope stability, landslip risk and the councils specific schedule. You do not need to have a soil test completed additionally but can expect to pay in the range of $2700 – $6000+ for these types of investigations
• Your project or planned development falls outside the scope of AS2870-2011 – Residential Slabs and Footings. Your soil test is required to become and Geotechnical Site Investigation. This is for all projects that fall outside a normal residential setting. Houses with basements included. The cost of completing a geotechnical investigation is totally dependant on the project, engineers brief and site requirements and depth of testing.
• Travel fees – if you are located outside metro Melbourne or nearby country you may have a travel fee quoted. This is usually based on the km distance travelled.