Frequently asked questions

Sound Geology offers competitive pricing and free, project-specific estimates. We typically bill on a time-and-materials basis and pass the savings on to you if we finish under budget. If your project requires multiple services (e.g., coal mine hazard evaluation and a stormwater infiltration assessment), we combine the fieldwork into a single site visit to keep your costs as low as possible.

We strive for quick turnarounds. Studies that do not require physical excavations, such as coal mine hazard evaluations, can typically be completed within one week. Evaluations requiring hand-dug test pits and laboratory soil analysis generally take one to three weeks, depending on the project's scale. Projects that require excavation coordination, specialized permitting, or archaeological clearance prior to digging may take longer. Contact us for a free estimate to get a precise timeline for your project.

No. Under the International Building Code (IBC Section 1803) and Washington state law (RCW 18.43), determining structural soil parameters, such as allowable bearing capacities, settlement estimates, lateral earth pressures, seismic surcharge pressures, and structural fill design, constitutes the practice of engineering. Because these calculations require the stamp of a licensed Professional Engineer (PE), Sound Geology strictly limits its services to Licensed Engineering Geology (LEG) scopes. This ensures your geologic hazard and stormwater assessments are fully compliant with local regulations while protecting your project from future liability.

No. Sound Geology focuses strictly on engineering geology, geologic hazard mapping, and stormwater assessments. Compaction testing requires specialized field density equipment (such as nuclear gauges) and laboratory testing (Proctor curves) to verify soil density during active construction. For these quality-control services, we recommend hiring a local construction materials testing firm or a special inspection agency.

No. Retaining wall design requires an analysis of structural forces, lateral earth pressures, and material specifications that fall strictly under the scope of a licensed Professional Engineer (PE). Because Sound Geology does not provide professional engineering services, we cannot design or stamp plans for retaining walls. We recommend hiring a licensed geotechnical or structural engineer for wall design.

No. Sound Geology provides engineering geology, geologic hazard and stormwater assessments to satisfy development and building permit requirements. We do not analyze soil nutrients, pH levels, agricultural suitability, or chemical contaminants. For farming, landscaping or gardening needs, we recommend contacting an agricultural testing laboratory or utilizing local university extension resources.

No. Sound Geology is strictly an engineering geology firm focusing on stormwater assessments and geological hazards. Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) belong to a separate discipline centered on chemical contamination, hazardous waste, and regulatory liability. If a lender, buyer or municipality requires a Phase I or Phase II ESA, you must hire a specialized environmental consulting firm or a certified Environmental Professional who meets federal EPA qualifications.