When planning a new building, one of the first and most crucial steps is determining where exactly on the property it should go. The siting is about more than just capturing the best view; it needs careful consideration of the ground, water, access, services and regulations. An engineering geologist who has expertise in geotechnical reports is who you turn to for achieving the best siting decision.
Our engineer geologist, Joe Hepper, helps explain the specifics to guide you through the process.
What Does an Engineering Geologist Do?
Joe has been working in this field for over 20 years, and he knows Tassie ground well. He analyses soil, rock, groundwater, and environmental conditions to help builders, developers and homeowners make the best use of their land to realise their vision.
Joe says, “My goal is to understand how the earth and environment will interact with any structure planned for the property, involving a combination of site visits, testing, and engineering analysis.”
Key Factors to Consider for Building Siting
1. Soil Type and Strength
Different soils have different load-bearing capacities. For example, sandy soil behaves very differently than clay or bedrock. It’s crucial to evaluate the soil’s ability to support the structure without excessive settling or movement.
2. Groundwater Levels
High groundwater can affect foundation design and construction costs. It can lead to water seepage or instability or require expensive waterproofing or dewatering solutions.
3. Drainage and Surface Water Flow
Evaluating how water flows across the property is important for siting decisions. Poor drainage can lead to erosion or flooding, so buildings are typically sited on higher ground or where stormwater can be easily diverted away from the building site.
4. Wind Tolerances
Wind tolerance refers to a building’s ability to withstand the pressure and force exerted by wind without sustaining damage. Understanding the site and how to position the building correctly is best determined by a site investigation.
5. Environmental and Resilience
Environmentally protected areas, vegetation, flood zones, easements, or contamination issues can inform where building is possible. Building for resilience against environmental threats is examined with proximity to services and safe zones alongside resources to be utilised or planned for on the property.
Why you need to get the siting right
Many clients already have an ideal location in mind for siting their build.
Joe comments, “We have so many beautiful vistas in Tasmania that the desire to capture them is strong. Of course, I hope to show that their vision is entirely possible. However, the site might have significant implications that haven’t been identified or considered. A site investigation gives the data to move forward with all factors that point to the best siting position with a full understanding of how it might affect the design and budget.”
What are some of the implications of where you site a building?
Build Safety and Lifespan
Proper siting ensures the building rests on stable ground, reducing the risk of structural issues like cracking, uneven settlement, or even collapse over time. It also ensures access and resilience around bushfire, flood or other threats that can impact homes, communities and lives.
Cost and Complexity
Choosing a site with problematic soil, steep terrain, or flooding issues can require deep foundations, retaining walls, drainage systems, or specialised construction methods—all of which drive up costs. Other costs might include tree removal, long driveways, windbreaks, and water storage, depending on what the site investigations uncover.
Environmental Impact
Careful siting can help minimise environmental damage or disruption, work with natural drainage patterns, and reduce erosion or sedimentation risks.
Compliance and Permits
Geotechnical reports are required before approving building permits. Poor siting choices can delay or complicate permit applications and approvals, adding time and expense to the project or even preventing them from moving forward.
The best time for a site investigation by a engineering geologist is either prior to land purchase or soon after. Gaining the scientific analysis and practical insight from a geologist engineer ensures the chosen siting is not only feasible but also safe, cost-effective, and sustainable.
