Why does council need a geotechnical report?

To confirm the ground can safely support what you're building and that hazards like slope instability, soft soils or liquefaction are managed.

How much does a geotechnical report cost?

It depends on the site, the project and the testing needed. We give you a clear, fixed scope and fee up front.

How long does it take?

Fieldwork is often done in a day for residential sites. Your proposal sets out the full programme.

Can you update or review an existing report?

Yes. If you have an older report or one from another firm, we can review it and advise whether it needs updating.

GEOTECHNICAL REPORTS

Geotechnical reports for building and resource consent

Need a geotechnical report for council? We prepare clear, council-ready reports that your designers can use and that answer the questions consent planners ask.

Every report is based on an investigation of your site and written by engineers who know Auckland's ground.

Reports we prepare

Building consent reports: for new homes, extensions, retaining walls and commercial buildings
Resource consent reports: for subdivisions, earthworks and developments on sloping or hazard-prone land
Geotechnical completion reports: confirming earthworks and lot conditions for 224c
Due diligence and pre-purchase reports: before you buy or commit to a site
Slope stability and liquefaction reports: for sites in council hazard overlays
Responses to council RFIs: clear answers to keep your consent moving

What's in a report

Site description, geology and ground conditions
Investigation logs and test results with a site plan
Groundwater observations
Soil and seismic subsoil classification
Foundation, retaining and earthworks recommendations
Slope stability and liquefaction assessment where needed
Construction considerations and geotechnical risks

How it works

Send us your plans and the site address.
Desk study. We review geology maps, the NZ Geotechnical Database, council records and historic aerials.
Proposal. You get a clear scope, fee and programme.
Site work. Our team carries out the fieldwork or inspections with minimal disruption to your site.
Report. Clear findings and practical recommendations.
Ongoing support. We answer council RFIs and support you through design and construction.

Why Gibb Ritchie

Principal-led. A director is involved in every project, from scope to sign-off.
Chartered professionals. Work led by Chartered Professional Engineers (CPEng).
Local experience. We know Auckland's ground, from North Shore clays and Waitematā rock to volcanic and reclaimed land.
Practical advice. Solutions that are technically robust, commercially realistic and fit your project.
Responsive. We know geotechnical input is often on the critical path for design, consent and construction.
With you to the end. The same team supports you through consent and construction.

FAQs

Need a geotechnical report? Send us your site address and plans, and we'll give you a clear scope and fee.

GIBB RITCHIE GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERS