Every successful development project starts with a thorough understanding of what lies below ground and that’s where our ground investigations come into their own. Integra Surveys specialise in providing comprehensive ground investigation surveys that are precise and reliable to help you make informed decisions about your project.
Digging test pits and trial pits, we expose the underground conditions so we can evaluate soil layers, property foundations, drainage systems and any other notable below-ground features. Once evaluated, the precise and reliable insights help identify things to be aware of when planning your project as well as potential risks, such as unstable soil, contamination or structural weaknesses with the potential to cause costly delays or project failures.
What are test pits and trial pits?
In essence, test and trial pits are the same in that they expose subsurface conditions, revealing real-time data and visuals of soil layers, property foundations, drainage systems and potential contamination. Your structural engineer will then analyse this information and use the findings to design stable foundations for your project for long-lasting durability.
Ground investigation services
Integra Surveys are a leading test pit company and trial pit company, offering the following services:
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Test and trial pits
Test pits and trial pits are our specialty and are used to directly access and examine soil conditions and subsurface structures. With the real-time insights your structural engineer can assess ground stability, drainage systems, and any potential contamination, ensuring suitable foundation design.
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Opening up works
Our opening up works service is a great way to make a detailed inspection of existing structures, so you can confirm its existing foundations and below-ground features are suitable for redevelopment or will need some extra reinforcement.
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Structural investigations
Our comprehensive structural investigations give you the peace of mind that your development is stable and in good condition. As a structural investigation company, we’ll make sure you have all the information you need to make the best decisions for your project.
Reasons to do a ground investigation
Without a detailed ground investigation, you’re pretty much working in the dark with no insight into what is going on below ground. Knowledge is power, so when you understand what lies beneath you can manage potential risks that could impact your construction project, such as:
- Ground stability: Foundations are designed to suit the surrounding ground conditions so by understanding the strength and behavior of the soil layers ensures stable foundations and minimises the risk of subsidence and soil erosion.
- Contamination risk: Detailed ground investigation surveys will identify any ground contamination in the soil or groundwater, such as industrial chemicals, heavy metals or waste. Finding any contaminates early on means that plans can be adjusted, avoiding costly remediation and delays further down the line.
- Compliance and regulations: Your project needs to comply with various local building codes and environmental regulations and a ground investigation survey ensures your project remains compliant, preventing legal issues down the line.
- Cost-efficiencies: A ground investigation survey is the best way to find and deal with potential issues early on. Nobody likes unforeseen expenses so with the right preparation and survey you can avoid problems associated with unstable ground or contamination.
How a ground investigation works
Integra Surveys will always tailor their service to suit your project, but this is the likely process:
- Consultation First we’ll meet to discuss your project and understand your needs before recommending the best ground investigation methods, whether test pits, trial pits or another form of opening up works.
- Site investigation Our team will perform the chosen investigation type and method of excavation to reveal and assess the local soil and structural conditions and any concerns.
- Detailed report With the site investigation complete we prepare a clear, concise and actionable report with the insights you need to plan your next steps.
- Structural engineer collaboration We’ll handover to your structural engineer and stay on hand to help with any further queries they may have, until you have your final designed plans ready for implementation.
Choose Integra Surveys for all your building investigation needs
We are a trusted ground investigation company, so look no further if you need a test and trial pit company that you can rely on. Our experienced team will deliver a comprehensive, accurate, and easy to read ground investigation to help ensure project success:
- Expert team: Every team member has proven experience and all the qualifications necessary to conduct our range of ground surveys and investigations, bringing valuable insights to every project.
- Detailed reports: You’ll receive a clear report of our survey findings, identifying the actionable insights that will help you make well-informed decisions about your property.
- Tailored surveys: Whether you’re looking for pre-purchase reassurance to a complete structural evaluation, Integra Surveys offer a ground investigation personalised to your needs.
- Nationwide service: We cover all the UK so no matter where you and your project are located, we’d be delighted to help with your ground and building investigations.