New Jersey

Soil Boring and Soil Testing

Soil borings and lab testing to learn what is underground before you design or build.

Typical US fee$750 to $1,500
Typical timeline1 to 3 weeks
Licensing boardNew Jersey State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors

What the work involves

Soil borings sample the ground at depth using a drill rig, with standard penetration tests and lab tests for moisture, plasticity, gradation and strength. They are the field portion of a geotechnical investigation and can be ordered alone for smaller projects. Results drive foundation type, excavation and drainage decisions.

Local conditions we plan for

  • Coastal flooding and storm surge (Hurricane Sandy)
  • Sea level rise and shoreline erosion
  • Dense redevelopment on fill and brownfield sites
  • Riverine flooding (Passaic, Raritan basins)

Building code: 2021 IBC/IRC adopted at the state level (ICC adoption chart, April 2026).

When you need it

  • Before buying land for construction
  • Planning a foundation or pool
  • Suspected fill, debris or soft soil
  • Groundwater depth needed

Frequently asked questions

How much does soil Boring and Soil Testing cost?

Across the US, soil Boring and Soil Testing usually costs $750 to $1,500. HomeAdvisor lists soil boring tests at $750 to $1,500, with additional borings commonly $400 to $800 each per cost-guide reporting.

How long does soil Boring and Soil Testing take?

Plan on 1 to 3 weeks from signed proposal to stamped deliverables, longer if a site visit, soil testing or a permit review cycle is involved.

Is a permit required for soil Boring and Soil Testing?

Often not on its own, but the findings frequently lead to work that does need a permit. We tell you which parts of the follow-up work your local building department will review, and can prepare those drawings too.

How do I verify an engineer's license in New Jersey?

Engineers practicing in New Jersey are licensed by the New Jersey State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. You can confirm a license number and its status in the board's public license search before you sign a contract.

Which building code applies in New Jersey?

2021 IBC/IRC adopted at the state level (ICC adoption chart, April 2026). Cities and counties can add local amendments, which is one reason to hire an engineer who works in your area.

What site problems do engineers see most in New Jersey?

Common issues include coastal flooding and storm surge (Hurricane Sandy), sea level rise and shoreline erosion, dense redevelopment on fill and brownfield sites and riverine flooding (Passaic, Raritan basins).

Cities we serve

Full service details →   State requirements →