Certified Soils Inspector
Soils Inspection & Testing Services, San Diego

Supporting Contractors, Owner-Builders, and Engineers with Reliable Field Findings

Successful construction starts from the ground up. In Southern California, soil conditions can vary significantly—even within the same site—making professional soils inspection and testing a critical early step in any commercial or residential project. As a certified Soils Inspector serving San Diego and surrounding Southern California communities, we work closely with California-licensed Geotechnical Engineers to provide accurate field observations and testing that support sound structural design and code compliance.

Early coordination with a qualified soils inspector can help contractors and owners reduce downstream risk, avoid costly rework, and keep projects moving through plan check and inspection without unnecessary delays.

certified soils inspector performing Inspection and testing on construction site
Man using a dynamic cone penetrometer to test soil on construction site

Certified Soils Inspection Services

Our role as soils inspectors is to observe, test, and document site conditions in accordance with approved plans, building codes, and project specifications. We provide field findings only, which are then submitted to the owner and the owner-retained structural or geotechnical engineer for analysis and final determination.

Typical inspection activities include verifying footing excavations, confirming soil bearing conditions, and documenting compliance prior to placement of concrete or structural elements.

Proper soils inspections help reduce structural risk, prevent unexpected site conditions, and support sound foundation design decisions. For a detailed breakdown of the risks addressed through early testing, see six critical reasons soil testing is essential before construction.

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Soil Testing & Field Evaluation

Soil testing is often performed at the bottom of footing excavations, typically 12–24 inches below grade, depending on project requirements. Standard procedures may include excavating test locations at all four corners of the structure and at the center, allowing for a representative evaluation of subsurface conditions.

In-Place Penetrometer Testing

We perform in-place penetrometer testing to obtain relative soil strength readings, commonly referenced in pounds per square foot (PSF). While penetrometer readings can indicate bearing capacity (e.g., 1,500 PSF), they do not independently confirm whether soils are native or fill material. These findings are documented and forwarded to the project engineer for interpretation.

Proper Fill Placement & Compaction Density Testing

Where fill is placed, proper placement and compaction are essential to long-term performance. We observe fill operations and perform compaction density testing as required to verify compliance with approved specifications. Poorly compacted fill can lead to settlement, cracking, and structural distress—issues that are far more expensive to address after construction.

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Soil Sampling prior to foundation construction using a dynamic cone penetrometer
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Expansive Soil Identification & Laboratory Testing

Clay-bearing soils are common in many parts of San Diego County. When field observations suggest clay content, or when required by the building official, soil samples may be sent to an approved soils materials laboratory for further testing.

Expansion Index & Shear Testing

Laboratory testing may include:

  • Expansion Index (EI) testing

  • Swell testing

  • Shear strength testing, as required

Expansive soils can swell when moisture is introduced, potentially cracking slabs or foundations. If laboratory results indicate high expansion potential, the project engineer determines the appropriate mitigation measures, which may include over-excavation and replacement with engineered fill.

Soils Reports for Structural Design

All inspection observations and test results are compiled into soils inspection reports and submitted to the owner and structural engineer. These reports support engineering decisions related to:

  • Footing size and depth

  • Reinforcing steel requirements

  • Foundation design assumptions

We do not provide engineering opinions or design recommendations—our responsibility is to deliver clear, defensible field data that engineers rely on for final analysis.

Soil Samples at different depths and locations

Serving San Diego & Southern California Contractors

We regularly work with commercial general contractors, residential builders, and owner-builders throughout San Diego and nearby Southern California cities. Our collaborative approach helps teams identify potential issues early, coordinate efficiently with engineers, and maintain compliance with local building departments.

If you’re planning excavation, footing placement, or slab construction, early soils inspection can help protect your schedule, your budget, and your project.

Contact us today to coordinate soils inspection and testing services before your next critical phase.

Why Choose Metzger Testing & Inspection?

⭐ Certified & Experienced
Our inspectors hold certifications from the International Code Council (ICC), and comply with local building standards. This means you’re getting qualified professionals with proven expertise.

⭐ Proactive Problem Solving
We don’t just find issues — we work with contractors and owners to resolve weld quality concerns efficiently and help maintain project timelines.

⭐ Client-Focused Communication
Clear documentation, timely reporting, and responsive service ensure that stakeholders always stay informed and empowered to make decisions with confidence.

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