Southern Geotechnical.
Experience you build on.

A standard Site Classification Report in Melbourne includes the following parameters:

• Soil type (e.g., Clay, Sand, Silt, or a mixtures)

• Soil reactivity – how much the soil will expand or contract with changes in moisture

• Bearing capacity – how much load the soil can safely support

• Site features – such as trees, existing structures, fill, and slope

Site Classification ensures your builder and engineer understand exactly how reactive the soil is, so they can design a footing or slab system that accommodates this movement and protects the integrity of your structure.

Soil testing provides essential data on the ground’s reactivity, bearing capacity and stability. Our comprehensive reports include all the critical details your engineer needs to make informed decisions when designing your project’s footings and foundations.

Unfortunately, soil classification isn’t something you can choose. It’s determined solely by what is found beneath the surface. Our role is to accurately report those findings so your builder or engineer can design the most suitable footing and slab system for your project.

There are many different classifications your site can come back as. The most common classification seen is a Class P, or “Problem Site”. Class P sites are governed by having trees or vegetation, existing buildings, old building remains, or fill (i.e. made ground) on site or neighbouring sites; which is the case for most sites around Victoria!

Other classifications include:

• Class S: Slightly Reactive – Sand/Light Clays/Silts
• Class M: Moderately Reactive – Medium Clay
• Class H1: Highly Reactive – Heavy Clays
• Class H2: Very Highly Reactive – Expansive Clays 
• Class E: Extremely Reactive – Highly Expansive Clays

For residential projects with restricted access, we use hand augers. These are perfect for getting into tighter spaces, testing exactly where the works are planned, and keeping disturbance to a minimum. We also have a fleet of 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

Simply send us the site address, a brief outline of your project, along with any available plans, and we’ll provide an obligation-free quote tailored to your site and requirements.