GBA-Member Firms use this sample cover sheet ""as is,"" submitting it with proposals to advise clients to have realistic expectations about the services provided by geotechnical engineers. It stresses that a geotechnical engineering report's recommendations are based on samples and therefore are not final. The insert sheet also emphasizes the need to: develop an effective subsurface-exploration plan with the help of the geotechnical engineer; read the engineer's general contract conditions carefully; and understand that the proposal will not include the services required to consider the likelihood of hazardous materials existing on-site, unless those services are specifically requested. The document also notes that the geotechnical engineer who developed a report cannot be held responsible for recommendations if other parties observe construction.

Only GBA-Member Firms are permitted to use the document as an insert sheet. Others may use it as a model for development of their own advisory document.

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