How Much Does a Geotechnial Report Cost?
Typical Range:
$1,000 - $5,000
Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor.
Published December 30, 2020
Written by HomeAdvisor.Geotechnical Report Cost
A geotechnical report costs $1,000 to $5,000 with an average of $2,500. Soil boring alone costs $800 to $1,400 while perc tests can range from $150 to $2,500 or more. They focus on testing the physical properties of a construction site. Surveys for single family homes tend to fall on the lower end of the range.
Geotechnical surveys for construction test for properties of the ground. These include compaction, absorption, drainage, major contaminants and water table levels. These reports let contractors address issues before and during construction.
Average Construction Soil Testing Cost
| Average Cost | $2,500 |
| High Cost | $5,000 |
| Low Cost | $1,000 |
Geotechnical Survey Costs
Geotechnical surveys cost $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the level of detail. They look at the density, composition, compaction, stabilization, groundwater depth and drainage of the ground. Most commercial and government projects require a highly detailed analysis. This large project ends up on the higher end of the range. Residential surveys don’t need quite as much detail, making them cost less.
In new subdivisions, land developers assess the entire area with a detailed report prior to any construction. This means you won’t need to do it again for a single home.
In rural cases, you’ll likely want to have the survey done before any work. Land sales are sometimes based on the results.
Soil Boring Test Cost
Soil boring tests and report cost $800 to $1,400 for the first two bores. Each additional one adds $400 to $800. They usually hit a depth of 15 feet to inspect for the presence of sand or expansive clay in the subsoil. Poor conditions can increase the price of homebuilding or make the site unsuitable for residential use.
Soil Compaction Test Cost
Soil compaction tests cost $75 to $150 each plus $200 to $500 for an onsite technician if it’s required by local regulations. This investigates the density after compaction. You’ll find it used most often under foundations and for roads.
Perc Test
Perc tests cost $150 to $3,000. For most single home projects, expect to pay on the lower end. Hard to access areas that need to bring in machinery fall on the higher end. Realtors use this determine the ground’s ability to absorb water. It’s needed before installing a septic system, leach field or drain tile. Basically, it measures how fast the dirt absorbs water.
DIY vs. Hiring a Soil Surveyor
Testing soil for construction means finding a geotechnical surveyor. The equipment and expertise needed for a proper geotechnical survey make it nearly impossible to do this yourself. In some locations, regulations require a licensed geotechnical firm perform all surveys. For a consultation and pricing in your area, contact a local soil testing service.
FAQs
What does soil contamination testing at a lab cost?
Soil contamination testing costs $600 on average.
What does perc testing cost?
Percolation testing costs $1,300 on average.
Find Pros Nearby
