Is Ground investigation legally mandatory in the UK? When does it become so?

[ac4u2nv]

Dear all
UK based - Is ground investigation a mandatory requirement - for small scale or large scale projects?

if so can any one provide me with clear references for this - im yet to be shown any.

of course not withstanding the huge benefit they provide but in trying to convince a small scale developer who wants to build a a 2 storey house, that its a mandatory requirement and not just an expensive benefit.

Also, are desk studies mandatory? if so please provide references.

Apparently someone mentioned that a desk study is always required for planning permission - is that so?

any references for the above two points would be appreciated.

 

[EireChch]

Investigations and desk top studys are not mandatory.

Many houses are built without site investigation in the UK. Sometimes they are requested, sometimes not.

 

[LittleInch]

Unless it is listed on the planning permission or the building regs, then no, it's not "mandatory".

Not sure what building regs say about foundation, but in the past it has been something suitably wishy washy like min 1m or until "suitable" ground is found.

Unless this is in a really remote location, then nearby houses will let you know what they needed to do.
Only in really rubbish ground would you need something like piling, but the risk is his. He needs to convince the building inspector or keep digging.

I've heard of foundations 3-4m deep before now until they found something the building inspector was happy with.

Oh and ignore Len - We think it's a bot response.

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.

 

[GeorgeTheCivilEngineer]

Not legally mandatory, no.

But the warranty provider may need one.

The NHBC / LABC etc will have their own guidance on what is required.