Soil Industries specalises in providing soil and geotechnical testing services for builders of residential dwellings, small-scale commercial and light industrial projects.

Soil Test (Site Classification)

Soil tests (or site classifications) are undertaken to assess the sub-surface soil conditions of a site enabling the design of appropriate building foundations.

At Soil Industries we use experienced geologists equipped with purpose built drilling rigs to undertake all aspects of soil testing.

This involves a geologist attending the site and taking note of important site features in addition to drilling a number of test bores where the proposed building is to be located. Once completed the site is classified in accordance with Australian Standard-2870 (Residential Slabs and
Footings) and a written report is then issued which usually forms part of a building application.

Site Levels

Site levels are undertaken to determine the slope of the terrain on a site and are often required as part of the building costing process. This information helps determine drainage requirements and if site cutting, filling or additional earthworks are necessary.

Site levels are generally conducted at the same time as a soil test.

Soil Industries uses the latest hi-tech robotic total stations to undertake measurements on site. From this we are able to produce a highly accurate site contour plan for use by your building designer. We can provide finished plans in printed form or digital format for loading into CAD software packages.

Feature Surveys (ResCode Surveys)

Feature (or Rescode) surveys are a more comprehensive type of site survey that takes into account the surrounding buildings and features of a site.

ResCode comprises a set of planning scheme provisions that apply to residential developments across Victoria. It governs the position of a house on its site, its setback from front and side boundaries, over shadowing and many other elements of a building's design. Building designers require information on the adjacent buildings to correctly design and position your house.Feature surveys are generally undertaken at the same time as a soil test and typically include:

• Contour plan of site (Site Levels as above)
• Location of adjoining dwellings and buildings on site
• The location and setbacks of adjoining properties of the site
• The details and location of key features including, footpaths, kerbs, laybacks etc, service pits and connection points of major services etc.
• Identification of any damage to pavements on site etc. 
• Photos of site

Cracked Building Investigations

Soil Industries offers a service to investigate damage to existing buildings. Building distress (or cracking) can occur for a variety of reasons. The first step in remedial action for such damage should be an investigation to establish the cause of the damage. Once the cause is established we can then recommend steps to be taken to reduce or halt the damage with a view to repair ofthe building.

Wind Load Ratings

Wind load ratings are undertaken to determine the peak wind gust speed likely on your site. The wind classification of a site depends on a number of factors such as the location of the site within Australia, the terrain and topography surrounding it and the shielding offered by surrounding buildings and trees.

Soil Industries will attend your site (usually at the time of soil testing) noting the relevant features and determine its rating. With this information a building designer can determine the appropriate window specification and bracing requirements for your house.

Contractor Services

Soil Industries provides fieldwork services for engineering firms and other building professionals who do not undertake this type of work for them selves or who are at times short staffed. We often provide bore logs, site photos and surveys for clients saving them both time and money.

Other Services

• Soil Industries also offers a number of additional geotechnical services to those listed above including:
• Footing probes
• Landslip Risk Assessment
• Soil and Geological Mapping
• Geotechnical Drilling
• Site Inspections 

If a service you require is not listed here please do not hesitate to contact our office – we may be able to help. 

Coming Soon

Land Capability and Percolation Tests These test are undertaken to assess the suitability of a site for on site waste water disposal in un-sewered areas.

This involves attending the site and taking note of its relevant features and soil profile to determine the suitability of a site to contain and successfully treat the wastewater.

Once completed a written report will be issued that will recommend the best method for treating and disposing of your wastewater on your land.