Phase 2 Ground Investigation
A Phase 2 Ground Investigation (also known as a Phase II Site Investigation) is a structured, on-site ground investigation that uses intrusive techniques such as trial pits, boreholes and soil, groundwater and gas sampling to:
- Verify and quantify risks identified in a Phase 1 Desk Study
- Assess contamination presence, extent and severity
- Measure key geotechnical parameters for design and construction
- Provide data for risk assessment and regulatory compliance
This process moves beyond desktop research to collect real, measured data from the ground itself — turning assumptions into evidence you can rely on
A Phase 2 investigation is an essential step for:
- Planning applications and discharge of planning conditions
- Supporting due diligence for land acquisition, financing and development
- Determining soil and sub-surface conditions for foundations, earthworks and drainage design
- Identifying and quantifying potential contamination risks
- Satisfying environmental regulators and lenders
- Avoiding costly surprises during construction
By providing quantitative data, this investigation reduces uncertainty, minimises risk and supports informed decision-making across environmental and engineering disciplines.
Intrusive Fieldwork
The investigation team will implement a site-specific sampling and testing plan. Typical techniques include:
- Trial pits and test pits for shallow soil profiling
- Boreholes drilled to depths required by site conditions
- Soil, groundwater and gas sampling
- In-situ geotechnical testing such as SPT, CPT and plate load tests
Laboratory Testing
Samples are analysed in UKAS-accredited laboratories to determine:
- Chemical contaminants (e.g. hydrocarbons, heavy metals, solvent residues)
- Soil strength, classification and geotechnical properties
- Groundwater quality and behaviour
- Ground gas presence and concentrations
Interpretation & Reporting
Once fieldwork and lab tests are complete, we produce a comprehensive Phase 2 Ground Investigation Report. This includes:
- Detailed methodology and sampling locations
- Laboratory and in-situ test results
- An updated Conceptual Site Model (CSM)
- Quantified risk assessments and engineered parameters
- Clear recommendations for remediation, further investigation or design inputs
