It all comes down to what you need!

You’ve just found out you need a soil test; so how much exactly does a soil test cost?

At North Western Geotechnical, we understand that no two sites are the same. That’s why we offer obligation-free quotes tailored to your specific project needs. The cost of a soil test depends on several factors, including the type of construction, site conditions, and depth or detail of testing required.

To get started, simply send us your building plans, a brief description of the works (such as extensions, pools, or commercial construction), or an engineering scope. From there, we’ll provide a clear, itemised quote outlining the services needed with no hidden fees or surprises.

Typical Soil Test Pricing:

Basic Residential Soil Testing

This typically starts from $500 – $600 + GST

This generally covers smaller scale projects like:

• Backyard sheds or studios
• Carports
• Verandah or Pergola
• Small home extensions
• Swimming pools

These tests usually involve 1–3 boreholes to 1.8m (unless we reach prior refusal) and delivers all the testing required for a Site Classification report in accordance with AS 2870 for residential footings. 

Larger Residential or Light Commercial Projects

Commercial and non-residential projects generally involve larger structures, heavier loads, and more complex engineering needs. Because of this, geotechnical investigations for commercial sites are far more comprehensive, covering a broader range of analyses and often requiring deeper drilling for more complex or larger-scale projects.

Geotechnical Investigations start from $800 + GST, depending on scope

This includes projects such as:

• Dual occupancies or multi-unit developments
• Shopfronts or retail tenancies
• Sporting pavilions or community buildings
• and more

Basements, Car Stackers, and Deep Footings

For deeper testing, we’ve got 4×4 mounted drill rigs and tracked rigs ready to go.

These allow us to drill deeper, even in tight spaces, and collect more detailed data, which is especially important for larger builds or complex ground conditions such as what is required for basements, cellars, car stackers and deeper footing requirements.

Testing often starts from around $1,200 + GST to cover the specialised equipment, extra man power and deeper testing required.

 

Land Capability Assessments (LCA)

Land Capability Assessments start from $2,450 + GST, depending on site and council requirements.

An LCA is essential before installing a septic or onsite wastewater management system. This assessment determines the most suitable type and size of wastewater disposal system needed to ensure safe, effective, and legally compliant onsite wastewater management.

For the calculations required, the scope of testing is far more in-depth than your standard Site Classification Report. It starts with desktop research to gather relevant background data, followed by field surveys to assess the land’s characteristics. In-situ permeability testing is then conducted to measure the soil’s ability to absorb water, and laboratory analysis is carried out on soil samples to further assess their suitability for wastewater disposal.

By also providing Site Classification Reports, we can complete both your LCA and the construction-required testing in a single visit by one of our Geotechnical Engineers, saving you time and money.

 

 

Ready to Get Started?

Send us your plans and project details, and we’ll take it from there. Our team is here to help, from the smallest jobs to large-scale developments.

📧 Email us at admin@nwgeotechnical.com.au

📞 Or give us a call on (03) 4440 1557