Question 1

How much does a geotechnical report or soil test cost in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

Fixed fees start from $750 + GST for smaller, tightly scoped jobs such as a granny flat, in-ground pool, or addition to an existing home. A standard AS 2870 site classification for a single-storey dwelling on a flat block with easy access typically starts from $1,000 + GST. Larger sites, restricted access, sloping blocks, or council-specified testing requirements scale the fee accordingly. Before quoting, we complete a desktop study, speak with you directly, and where useful, visit the site. You receive a fixed-fee proposal with no hidden drilling extras. All fees are exclusive of GST. Request a fixed-fee site assessment.

Question 2

What makes SFGEO different from other geotechnical firms in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

The engineer drills your site. The person who signs your report is the person who extracted the samples, cross-verified the data on site, and sat down to interpret it. No drilling subcontractors, no drive-by inspections. Every SFGEO report is a comprehensive document, not a template with a few values dropped in. Where practical, we use the drill rig to reach greater depth, and we supplement boreholes with in-situ testing so the data is cross-verified on site before it reaches you. The intent is simple: the right data, the first time, so your structural engineer designs accurately, your certifier's requirements are met, and your builder prices against a design that reflects the ground. All laboratory work is conducted through a third-party NATA-accredited facility. Speak to our team directly.

Question 3

Do I need a soil test for my project?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. Whether you are navigating a Development Application (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC), a geotechnical report or AS 2870 site classification is commonly required for new builds, knockdown rebuilds, extensions, granny flats, in-ground pools, and retaining works. We provide the parameters your engineer needs for foundation design on Sydney's reactive clay, shale, and sandstone sites. Unsure what your project needs? Send us your site address and we will advise.

Question 4

How long does a soil test and geotechnical report take?

Accepted Answer

For a straightforward AS 2870 site classification, expect two to three business days from proposal acceptance to final report. A standard geotechnical investigation that includes NATA-accredited laboratory testing typically lands within five to seven business days, with the lab schedule being the main variable.  Urgent turnarounds are possible, and we handle them regularly for time-critical DAs, CDCs, and construction programs. We will tell you honestly whether your timeline is workable before you commit.  The only factors that realistically extend a project are the client's own site readiness and specific lab testing requirements written into the scope. Everything within our control, we move on quickly.

Question 5

Can you work on tight-access, sloping, or restricted sites?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our 4WD-mounted drill rig reaches sites many operators turn down, and where machine access is not possible, we deploy motorised hand augers and in-situ testing to extract the same quality of data. Internal courtyards, zero-clearance laneways, rear-yard investigations, and steeply sloping blocks across Sydney are routine work for us. We assess access as part of the desktop study before quoting, so there are no surprises on mobilisation day. See our drilling capability.

Question 6

How do I get a quote?

Accepted Answer

Send us your site address, a brief on the proposed works, and any council or engineer requirements you already have. We complete a desktop study, call you to discuss the scope, and issue a fixed-fee proposal tailored to your project. There is no charge for the quote, and there is no obligation once you receive it. Request a fixed-fee site assessment.

Geotechnical.
Done Properly.

Geotechnical Services | Drilling Services

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Common Questions about Geotechnical Services in Sydney

Geotechnical & Drilling Services Across Greater Sydney

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North Shore, Ryde & Hills

Eastern Suburbs & Southern Sydney

Geotechnical. Done Properly.