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Frequently Asked Questions
- FAQs
Top Questions
Check out our top frequently asked questions in regards to ValleyShore and our Geotechnical engineering services.
When should we bring a geotechnical engineer onto a project?
The best time to bring in a geotechnical engineer is early — during site planning or early design.
Early geotechnical input helps identify subsurface risks and informs foundation, grading, and pavement design before plans are finalized. This typically reduces redesign, change orders, and construction delays, and leads to a smoother project once construction begins.
What services do you provide?
We provide engineering and testing services that support projects from early planning through construction, including geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing (CMT), special inspections, in-house laboratory testing, and environmental consulting.
Do you provide special inspections and code-required testing?
Yes — ValleyShore Engineering provides IBC code-required special inspections and testing in support of structural and site construction. Our inspections are performed by qualified, certified personnel (ICC, ACI, NICET, CWI, as applicable) and coordinated with the project’s approved construction documents and Special Inspection Schedule.
How long does a geotechnical or environmental report take?
Turnaround depends on the project size, site conditions, and required scope, but most reports follow a typical range:
- Geotechnical Reports: typically 1–3 weeks after field exploration is completed
- Environmental Reports (Phase I ESA): typically 1–2 weeks after the site visit and records review
- Phase II / Sampling-Based Studies: typically 2–6+ weeks, depending on laboratory turnaround times and regulatory requirements
If a project is on a tight schedule, we can often provide expedited services and coordinate early findings while the full report is being finalized.
What information do you need to provide a proposal or fee?
To prepare an accurate scope and fee, we typically need:
- Project address / site location
- A brief description of the project (building type, use, number of stories, etc.)
- Site plan, civil plans, or concept layout (if available)
- Proposed grading information (cut/fill, retaining walls, slopes, etc.)
- Foundation type (if known) (slab-on-grade, deep foundations, basement, etc.)
- Project schedule and target start date
- Any geotechnical, environmental, or prior report information available for the site
If plans aren’t ready yet, we can still provide a budgetary proposal based on a short project description and a quick call.
Do you work directly with contractors during construction?
Yes. We regularly work directly with general contractors, grading contractors, and concrete crews during construction to support field decisions and keep work moving.
Our team coordinates with contractors for construction materials testing, special inspections, proofrolling, compaction testing, concrete testing, and on-site observations, and we communicate findings quickly so issues can be addressed in real time.
What happens if site conditions differ from what was anticipated?
If field conditions differ from what was anticipated, we’ll evaluate the new conditions and provide updated recommendations to the project team. This may include additional testing, revised earthwork guidance, or alternative foundation/subgrade solutions to keep construction moving safely and efficiently.
Can you support environmental due diligence and permitting?
Yes. We support environmental due diligence and permitting for development and construction projects.
This commonly includes Phase I ESA support, Phase II sampling coordination, regulatory agency coordination, wetlands and stream delineations, hydrologic determinations (WOTUS / Waters of the State), and permitting support as required for the project.
Are your reports and testing accepted by local jurisdictions and agencies?
Yes. Our reports, testing, and inspection documentation are prepared in accordance with applicable building codes, ASTM standards, and local jurisdiction requirements, and are routinely accepted by local building departments, municipalities, and regulatory agencies.
When required, we also coordinate directly with the Engineer of Record, plan reviewers, and inspectors to ensure our scope and documentation align with the project’s approved requirements.
How are your services typically contracted—lump sum or time and materials?
We offer both, depending on the service and how well the scope can be defined.
- Geotechnical and environmental reports are typically provided as a lump sum, based on the planned exploration and deliverables.
- Construction-phase services (CMT and special inspections) are most often performed on a time and materials basis, since site schedules and testing frequencies can vary day-to-day.
We can also provide budgetary estimates and not-to-exceed options when helpful for project planning.
- Testimonials
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