ED soil classification, would you build on it?

If the footings are properly designed then it should be fine. I guess that's why they cost 20k. No doubt the house next door, and next to that etc have been built and are still standing. If you are concerned, ask the neighbours if they have noticed any movement etc.

Hi there Al,

Whenever I see that photo it makes me laugh, and your comments are often very funny, love reading your posts...

Anyway, its a new stage in an already developed area, so there are no neighbours as yet, but have heard that several peoples footing costs have blown out in the same street.

But im with you, if the footings are made to the soil classification then it should be ok, you would think...

As I mentioned in your other post, you are wanting to build on a site that has an extremely reactive soil with deep moisture changes (ED).

Reactivity refers to the tendency for the clay soil beneath the footings to shrink and swell with changes in moisture content which can lift and lower the building (which as you can imagine is not a good look)

One of the major factors is the ability of water to reach the clay material beneath the footings, since your E site also has a D classification (deep moisture changes greater than 3m) then it is not the best news for a E site.

I would not be building on that land.

Not trying to scare you as whether you build or not makes no difference to me - just presenting the facts. If you are committed however I would seek a guareentee from the builder or the engineering company.

eg, drainage, tree control, moisture control

Do you also have access to the footings plan? How deep are they going to go?