Commercial and multi-unit developments can present different ground risks from a single residential dwelling. Proposed loading, building footprint, excavation depth, adjacent properties, retaining structures and access all influence the information needed by the design team.
An appropriate geotechnical investigation should be scoped to the individual project, taking account of the development stage and the decisions the report is intended to support.
Match investigation locations to the development
Subsurface conditions can vary across a larger site. The investigation program may consider borehole locations, depth, sampling, in-situ observations and any relevant laboratory testing, depending on the agreed scope.
Basements, major cut-and-fill, existing fill, groundwater, shoring and nearby buildings may require additional engineering questions to be addressed. The relevant structural and specialist designers remain responsible for their respective design scopes.
Provide the site address, survey, architectural plans, proposed construction levels and available structural or civil information. Include known contamination, underground services, prior geotechnical reports and any council, certifier or designer requirements where relevant.
Clear project information allows the proposed fieldwork and reporting scope to be proportionate. Sydney Geotechnical's geotechnical investigations start from $2,200, with commercial project pricing assessed against the actual scope and conditions.
Common questions
Commercial development investigations: common questions
Is a residential soil report sufficient for a commercial development?+
Not necessarily. Commercial or multi-unit projects can require broader geotechnical information depending on loading, excavation, ground conditions and project-specific design requirements.
Does every commercial project require deep drilling?+
No. Investigation depth and methodology should be selected for the actual development, ground risks and agreed engineering scope.
Can council or certifier requirements change the scope?+
They can. Provide the actual written approval or certification request, because requirements vary with the project, site and relevant authority.
Need Request a commercial investigation quote in Sydney?
Get a scope matched to the project
Send the site address, proposed works, current plans and any request from your builder, engineer, council or certifier. Sydney Geotechnical will review the information and confirm an appropriate scope and fee.
This guide provides general information only and is not a substitute for investigation, engineering advice, footing design or approval advice for a particular property. Project requirements and ground conditions must be assessed site by site.
