Frequently Asked Questions

Geotechnical engineering focuses on understanding soil, rock, and groundwater conditions at a construction site. It’s essential for:

• Designing foundations
• Evaluating slope stability
• Planning earthwork
• Preventing settlement and structural failure

If you’re constructing a new building, roadway, retaining wall, or any structure with subsurface interaction, geotechnical investigations are vital.

• Site visit and subsurface boring
• Soil/rock sampling and classification
• Laboratory testing of soil properties
• Analysis of bearing capacity, drainage, and slope risks
• Foundation and earthwork recommendations
• Final report sealed by a Professional Engineer

Most investigations are completed within 2–4 weeks, depending on project complexity and site accessibility. Rush services may be available on request.

This service ensures that materials used on-site meet project specifications and regulatory standards. We test:

• Soil compaction
• Concrete strength (cylinders, slump)
• Asphalt mix
• Aggregates
• Mortar and grout strength
• Subgrade and backfill materials

It helps verify the safety and performance of your structure and ensures compliance with design plans, preventing costly failures or delays.

Chapter 17 refers to the section in the International Building Code (IBC) that mandates Special Inspections during construction. These inspections must be performed by certified professionals to verify critical components such as:

• Foundations
• Reinforcing steel placement
• Concrete pouring and curing
• Masonry construction
• Structural steel bolting and welding
• Fireproofing materials
• Soils and fill compaction

NewTech provides certified inspectors and engineers to perform these inspections, and we generate the required documentation for code compliance.

If your structure falls under the scope of the IBC or local building authority requirements, then yes. Most commercial, multi-family, and institutional projects are subject to Chapter 17 Special Inspection requirements.

An ESA is an investigation to determine whether a property is environmentally safe for development or sale. We offer:

• Phase I ESA: Historical research, regulatory review, site inspection
• Phase II ESA (if needed): Soil and groundwater sampling to confirm contamination risks

• Before purchasing commercial or industrial property
• For refinancing or redevelopment
• When required by lenders (e.g., SBA loans)

We perform Phase I and Phase II assessments. For remediation, we can refer you to trusted environmental remediation contractors if contaminants are found.

Asbestos inspections identify building materials that may contain asbestos, such as floor tiles, ceiling panels, insulation, and joint compounds. Inspections are typically required:

• Before renovation or demolition
• To comply with state and federal EPA regulations
• During due diligence before property transactions

Our certified inspectors collect representative samples of suspect materials, which are analyzed by an accredited laboratory. A detailed report is then issued listing all Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs), if any.

No. We provide the inspection and documentation required for abatement. Licensed abatement contractors handle actual removal. We can refer you to qualified firms.

Yes. Our personnel are certified per industry standards (NICET, ACI, ICC) and state requirements. All engineering reports and inspections are signed and sealed by licensed Professional Engineers.

All of the above. We provide services for:

• General contractors
• Civil and structural engineers
• Architects
• Municipalities
• Developers
• Commercial property owners
• Residential clients (in some cases)

• Commercial buildings and shopping centers
• Subdivisions and roadway projects
• Schools, warehouses, and industrial buildings
• Retaining walls and slope evaluations
• Renovation and demolition projects
• Environmental due diligence for real estate

Pricing depends on project scope, site conditions, and required testing. We provide detailed, competitive quotes. Contact us at:
📧 kcooper.newtech@gmail.com
📞 +1 980-326-0876

Yes. We encourage an initial consultation to understand your project, determine necessary services, and tailor a scope of work. This often helps clients save time and money during construction.

Reports are typically delivered in PDF format via email. Hard copies are available upon request. Reports include all data, observations, recommendations, and professional certifications.

Yes. We maintain all required business licenses, professional engineering certifications, and general liability/professional insurance for our operations in North Carolina and South Carolina.

• Direct access to senior engineers (not just office staff)
• Quick response times and project turnaround
• Deep local knowledge of subsurface and regulatory conditions
• Full-service integration across testing, inspections, and assessments
• Licensed and certified professionals with years of field experience