What is a Lot classification or Site classification
The purpose of Site Classification or commonly known as lot classification is to assist the design engineer to design of the foundation system and slab for residential buildings. This is accomplished by carrying out site classifications in general accordance with the Australian Standards AS 2870.
he site will be given either one of the following classifications
| Class | Foundation |
|---|---|
| A | Most sand and rock sites with little or no ground movement from moisture changes |
| S | Slightly reactive clay sites, which may experience only slight ground movement from moisture changes |
| M | Moderately reactive clay or silt sites, which may experience moderate ground movement from moisture changes |
| H1 | Highly reactive clay sites, which may experience high ground movement from moisture changes |
| H2 | Highly reactive clay sites, which may experience very high ground movement from moisture changes |
| E | Extremely reactive sites, which may experience extreme ground movement from moisture changes |
Should your site not be able to be classified with any of the above classes, it will be given a classification of Class P, which indicates the presence of geotechnical problems on the site. Should classification of class P be given, we will provide recommendations on what to do next.
Can a site classification be changed?
Yes. A Geotechnical Engineer can review existing site classification and amend it on basis of engineering principles and judgement per AS2870. The cost of a wrong site classification could result in either the total loss of the residential building or $10,000+ in unnecessary additional expenditure on the foundation.
Site Classification VS Geotechnical Investigation
A geotechnical site investigation differs from that of site classification as it is a more comprehensive investigation, that is scoped and caried out by a professional Geotechnical Engineer. Whereas a site classification is carried out in general accordance with Australian Standards AS 2870 and can be a cheap and cost effective if there are no complex geotechnical issues on the site. A geotechnical site Investigation takes into consideration your proposed development and all other geotechnical issues that may affect your proposed development.
What is Turnaround Time for a site classification report?
Usually 3 - 5 business days
What does a site classification include?
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Boreholes will be drilled at a depth and quantity specified in accordance with Australian Standards AS2870.
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The soil profile will be logged by an experienced geotechnician in general accordance with Australian Standards AS1726
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Either dynamic cone penetrometer or Perth sand penetrometer testing will be carried out.
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Observations of groundwater levels will be made, and boreholes backfilled.
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Other site Observations will be made as required by the Australian Standards AS2870
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A report will be submitted with a site Classification and other recommendations relevant to your site.
