1. Why do I need a GR?

A Geotechnical Investigation is a set of operations carried out at the site of the future work, aiming at determining the nature and characteristics of the soil site, its layout and accidents with interest for this work.

It´s a fact that the most expensive problems to repair in construction usually occur during the earth works phase due to inadequate process and/or insufficient information. Sometimes the result is an urgent review of the design and works in standby. Even more expensive if the repairs are after the construction is on service.

It is this phase of the construction a Geotechnical Report specifically focuses on, with an aim of minimizing the risk of construction issues by providing methodology and process for ground works related construction and site specific information on the ground materials.

2. What is a Geotechnical Report?

A Geotechnical Report is a document used to convey the characteristics of the soil / rock on and underlying a land to be built. The Geotechnical Report is supported in its essence from soil tests carried out at points spaced locally, and under laboratory samples collected at the site – Geotechnical Investigation. To a certain extent, a Geotechnical Report is an interpretive document, since the information obtained from the test points is used to build an image of the subsoil conditions throughout the site.

The report (interpretive, not factual) provides design parameters for the soil and rock materials found on-site. These parameters are generally used in the design of the engineering project, be it a foundation, lateral support, or just the procedures necessary for the safe accomplishment of the excavation. The report will also consider groundwater conditions and their implications. In addition, a Geotechnical Report describes and evaluates the existing and potential hazards that could arise from the instability of the slope and the dangers that could arise during the construction process during the earthmoving phase. It also provides solutions to limit these risks to acceptable levels of risk.

3. How do I know what kind of Geotechnical investigations works \ report I need?

Speak to our staff who have the knowledge to assist you in determining what is required to meet your situation.

4. What will be the cost of a Geotechnical investigation \ Report?

In general, the cost of the Geotechnical Investigation and the respective Report correspond to a small percentage of the total cost of the work and are never cost-prohibitive. Please ask us for a quote.

5. What elements I need to send to get a quotation?

Preferably you should send the following elements, if you have them, if you do not have all, do not hesitate to contact us and send what you have:

• Google Earth location – useful to see if we have nearby geotechnical information, access, etc.;

• Implementation plan – quantification \ confirmation of Bore holes \ research points;

• Ground floor plant and cellars – quantification \ confirmation of research points;

• Construction cuts – Imposition of minimum probing depths and assistance in the quantification of research points;

• Topographic Plant – Methodology for placing the research points \ altimetric references.

6. How much time will it take to have a Geotechnical Investigation and the Geotechnical Report?

The execution time will depend on several factors: the type and purpose of the project, the area to be explored, the nature of the soil found, the type and nature of the field and laboratory tests.

Each case is unique and needs to be studied and estimated.

7. What documents are required for licensing a Geotechnical Investigation in Angola (Luanda)?

If the construction, still doesn’t have the licence given by the competent authorities, it must be requested by the owner \ construction company, through a simple application, even, if only for the purposes of Geotechnical Investigation:

• Luanda – except Talatona (IPGUL – Institute of Urban Planning and Management of Luanda) http://www.luanda.gov.ao/todosservicos.aspx

• Luanda – Talatona (CAUT – Administrative Commission for Urbanization of Talatona) – AL7 Avenue Largo do Condomínio Riviera Talatona, Luanda

• Remaining National territory, should go to the respective Administration that oversees the region to carry out the Geotechnical Investigation.