Why do I need a soil report?

A soil report is typically required by the governmental agency that reviews and permits your project. If there is grading required for your site to create a level area for your structure, a soil report will most likely be required. If the agency identifies potential soil related issues on published maps, a soil report will be required. Soil related issues would be collapsible soils (causing structure settlement), expansive soils (like clays causing upheaval and cracking concrete). Everybody knows that a good foundation is important, but the soil supporting that foundation is equally important.

Speaking to a professional prior to purchasing a parcel could help determine your budget needed for construction. Items such as grading and soil related issues will effect your budget.

What is a soil report and how long does it take?

A soil report is a document prepared relative to the subsurface soil conditions of a specific site. The data is obtained though sampling of the soil at various depths through excavation or drilling. The soil samples obtained at the site are tested in the soil laboratory to determine the different characteristics relative to the proposed construction. The data is analyzed by an engineer and a report is prepared that provides recommendations for foundations and to remedy the soil related issues determined through the lab testing. Remedies could include additional steel reinforcement for the foundations or recompaction of the soil to properly support the structure. There are many facets of soil engineering relative to the structures proposed.

The preparation time of a soil report depends on the project size and complexity. A report for a single family dwelling on flat land may take 2 weeks. For a more complex report that addresses many things like hillside grading or for commercial or industrial structures, the report may take several weeks. Please contact Bruin GSI for an honest and comprehensive proposal for your proposed development.

What is a perc report?

A perc report or percolation feasibility study determines the suitability of a given site for a private sewage disposal system. This type of study is required if there is no sanitary sewer to connect to at the site. This report involves excavation of numerous test holes or pits and testing with clean water to determine the absorption rate of the soil. The data is collected and a report prepared indicating the type and size of the septic system required. The system could be with a leach bed, leach lines or seepage pits.

Some sites may not percolate very well or may be very small or have high groundwater. It is important to speak to a professional that performs these studies prior to purchasing a parcel that requires a private sewage disposal system, as the different types of system costs vary greatly. If the site doesn't percolate or there are high groundwater issues, you may not be able to build. Please contact Bruin GSI for a comprehensive estimate.

What are the costs related to soils reports and percolation reports?

Costs vary and depend on the parcel and proposed construction. Soil reports for a single family residence on flat land can be from $1,500 to $3,000. Simple percolation reports on flat land can be from $1500 to $2500. There are many factors involved as each site and development is different. The more complex the site and development, the more involved the reports will be. When determining your budget, please call Bruin GSI for a site specific quote.

Other costs that may arise as part of developing your site, from a soil engineering standpoint, could include a slope stability analysis or a liquefaction analysis. It is important to speak to a professional before purchasing the parcel, as these items could create additional costs during site development.

In addition, the soils engineer is typically required to review the foundation plans, grading plans and perform site observations and compaction testing to verify compliance with the recommendations provided in the soil report. Costs for these items can be provided, based on your specific development.

Nobody likes hidden costs or wants to be nickel and dimed throughout your planning or construction process. Call Bruin GSI for honest and upfront information regarding costs for your project.

Why Should I Use Bruin GSI?

Bruin Geotechnical Services Inc. provides professional and cost-effective soil and material testing services in the Antelope Valley and surrounding areas. Bruin GSI has experience with single-family developments, large subdivisions, commercial shopping centers and industrial complexes. Their staff has combined local experience of 50 years. Our upfront and honest approach, vast knowledge, cost effective prices and nurtured relationships with local agencies will help bring your project from conception to completion. Our superior customer service will have you referring our firm to your colleagues and friends. Please contact Bruin GSI for your next project.