Sydney Geotechnical site classifications start from $750
Sydney Geotechnical's standard residential site classification service starts from $750. This price applies to a suitable AS 2870 site-classification scope; it should not be described as a universal starting price for every soil test, laboratory test or broader geotechnical investigation.
The final fee depends on the subject property, proposed works, access, investigation requirements and the engineering information needed by the footing designer or project team. A quote should identify the actual agreed scope before attendance.
What an AS 2870 classification is intended to provide
A residential site classification helps the structural or footing designer understand expected moisture-related ground movement and relevant site conditions. The investigation may involve site observations, suitable subsurface assessment and engineering interpretation appropriate to the project.
The report supports footing and slab design. It does not automatically provide detailed basement excavation, retaining-wall parameters, slope stability analysis or structural footing design.
Why one residential site may cost more than another
Access, existing buildings, narrow gates, paving, slope, variable fill and unusual moisture conditions can affect the equipment and investigation methods needed. Larger footprints, multiple proposed dwellings or additional engineering questions may also change the scope.
Where selected laboratory testing or deeper investigation is required to answer the specific project question, those requirements should be discussed in the quote rather than assumed to be included in every standard starting fee.
- Complete site address and travel or access considerations.
- Type and size of the proposed dwelling, extension or granny flat.
- Availability of drawings, survey and previous ground information.
- Investigation locations and practical site-access constraints.
- Fill, slope, abnormal moisture or other site-specific conditions.
- Any additional request from the builder, structural engineer or certifier.
When a classification is not the right service
A basement, substantial retaining wall, significant excavation, unstable slope, larger development or uncertain founding condition may require a broader geotechnical investigation. Sydney Geotechnical's broader investigations start from $2,200 and are scoped to the actual engineering questions.
If the builder or approval authority has used the general term 'soil report', forward the original request. The appropriate service can then be identified without confusing a site classification with a different investigation product.
Common questions
Sydney site classification pricing: common questions
Does the $750 starting price apply to every soil-testing service?+
No. The confirmed from-$750 price applies specifically to Sydney Geotechnical's AS 2870 site classification service. Other testing and investigation scopes are priced separately.
Does the starting fee include every laboratory test?+
Testing requirements depend on the agreed project scope and site conditions. The quotation should explain the investigation and engineering deliverables relevant to the particular property.
Can a granny flat use the same starting price?+
A granny-flat project may be suitable for a residential site classification, but the final scope and fee depend on the site, access, proposed development and requested deliverables.
Need AS 2870 site classification 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.
