Providing A Valid Soil Test
You might be looking to undertake some new works on your property and may be wondering, is that soil test I got years ago still valid?
Soil tests determine the density, moisture, reactivity and composition of the soil (e.g., clay, sand, rock). For construction, the soil is tested to determine its effect on the proposed structure so that we can design the foundations. See our soil testing blog for more information about soil tests their purpose and what different soil classifications mean.
There are a few factors that come into play when determining a soil tests validity.
Typically, a soil report will remain valid unless there is a change to the site’s conditions, these changes could include:
- New trees, either on your property or adjacent properties
- If the property is in an area prone to erosion or landslides
- Excavation of soil from your property, and/or fill being put onto your property (such as landscaping changes)
- If the area that you want to build your new structure on wasn’t previously tested in the report
It should also be noted that old soil tests may not be in accordance with current standards or current soil testing procedures, which means it may not be as accurate as necessary.
Can I build new structures without a soil test?
Any structure that requires a building permit will need a soil test. E.g. sheds larger than 10m², this is because these structures will require building permits that need the relevant engineering documents in order for the permit to be approved, one of these documents is a valid soil test.
Any structure being built with a building permit needs a valid soil test, this could include as mentioned above a shed, a house extension, a flat, a carport or pergola etc.
If you have questions about your soil tests validity or need a new soil test, contact one of our experienced engineers today at https://www.structerre.com.au/locations/
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