Geotechnical Survey
Learn about geotechnical surveys in Canadian real estate — what they evaluate, why they’re required, and how they reduce construction risks.

July 27, 2025
What is a Geotechnical Survey?
A geotechnical survey is a field investigation and analysis of soil, rock, groundwater, and other subsurface conditions on a site to assess its suitability for construction.
Why Geotechnical Surveys Matter in Real Estate
In Canadian real estate development and construction, geotechnical surveys identify potential risks and inform the design of foundations, retaining walls, and drainage systems.
Key elements:
- Soil bearing capacity and composition
- Groundwater table levels
- Slope stability and erosion risks
- Presence of contaminants or problematic soils
A geotechnical survey is often required before issuing building permits for new construction or significant redevelopments.
Example of a Geotechnical Survey in Action
The developer commissioned a geotechnical survey to ensure the soil could support the planned high-rise building.
Key Takeaways
- Evaluates subsurface conditions before construction
- Informs foundation and drainage design
- Helps identify environmental or soil risks
- Required for many building projects
- Reduces structural and safety issues
Related Terms
- Building Permit
- Drainage System
- Foundation
- Site Plan
- Environmental Site Assessment

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Canada residential unit sales by month, actual, 2019 and 2024-2026. Data through June 2026. Source:
Canada residential sales-to-new-listings ratio, actual, January 2025 to June 2026. Source:
Canada residential months of inventory, actual, January 2025 to June 2026. Source: Source:
Year-over-year change in residential average sale price for Canada, Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta, January 2022 to June 2026. Average price is shown here as a regional mix measure, not a substitute for HPI or local comparable sales. Source:
Year-over-year change in residential unit sales for Canada, Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta, January 2024 to June 2026. Source: 
15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)
Renderings of the tower proposed for 15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)





Goldberg Group 
10-storey apartment building currently occupying 525 Eglinton Avenue East/WND Associates
Rendering of 525 Eglinton Avenue East/Wallman Architects
The Mayfair West site and its surrounding context. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)
Renderings of Mayfair West. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)



















