This brochure is designed to help owners understand the observational method that forms the basis of geotechnical services, and the liability and other problems that can result when the firm that conducted the geotechnical exploration is not also retained to provide construction or remediation observation. The text explains that preliminary subsurface testing does not guarantee correct results and encourages clients to retain a geoprofessional through the excavation phase. When complete geotechnical services are not performed, the brochure explains, "Full responsibility [for errors] might end up in the owner's lap."

observational method, remediation, excavation