Soil survey report for house construction

Hello!

I also can’t understand any builder who buys a plot without a soil survey. The soil conditions were “known” to me even before the purchase, but I would never have signed anything without a soil survey. Okay, for me it was maybe “money thrown away,” since the survey confirmed exactly what had been told to me orally beforehand. But honestly: items like "soil survey" and "external expert" make up about 1% of the total investment – but they reduce the risk by far more percent (even if 100% certainty is not possible). Buying a house always means a (more or less large) six-figure sum. What does a small four-figure sum for the surveyors matter in comparison?

Therefore, my advice to everyone: Yes, definitely have a soil survey done.

Regards Micha

@ Micha

under normal circumstances I would agree with you, but firstly things turn out differently and secondly than you think.

Unfortunately, we were also unable to conduct a soil survey before signing the notary contract.
Our construction area is currently being developed. Previously, there was a factory on the site. After demolition and soil replacement, the area is now gradually being filled up again and the infrastructure (pipes/roads) is being built.
Unfortunately, we were not able to create a soil survey before the notary appointment, as not all surfaces have been applied yet, no survey has taken place, and there is still a large pile of topsoil for the construction area on our future plot of land.
We would have preferred it differently as well, but then we would not have gotten the land.

Hello Musketeer

Then you are the famous exception that proves the rule
But honestly: How often does a case like that happen??
Can you at least check every now and then what they are dumping in there?

In our case, an old building (incl. basement) was also demolished and the ground was filled up again - so we knew what kind of soil it was. But better safe than sorry.
A few weeks after the soil report - but still before the notary appointment - we happened to find foundations of an ancient building (demolished 1925) in our garden. Even with a report, you don’t have 100% certainty - but that was only in the garden.
And the city lowered the purchase price by the disposal costs - which in turn saved us a few euros in property transfer tax...

Regards
Micha

Yes, I check regularly. We had already reserved the plot in March 2012, at that time there were still basement parts of the factory. After that, excavation took place (partly up to 6m deep) and then gradually backfilled. Despite rollers and excavators, I think that costs for compaction still need to be planned by us. It was still quite soft in autumn when walking over it. Since the environmental office is also keeping an eye on it and the release from the environmental authorities must be obtained before our purchase payment, I have at least little concern in that regard, as we are supposed to receive a copy of this soil report as well.

A soil survey later secures the warranty if defects occur. Without a building survey, which is the responsibility of the builder, the contractor can disclaim errors. (was just explained to me as well) That's why we do it!