Structural & Geotechnical Engineering Across British Columbia

Understanding Geohazard Risks

Natural terrain conditions can affect the safety and long-term performance of a property or proposed development. Our geohazard assessments help identify potential concerns and provide practical recommendations for safer planning, design, and construction.

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Steep Slopes
Sloping ground can be more challenging to build on because soil, water, and fill may move downhill. Steep slopes may require setbacks, drainage control, retaining measures, or specific construction recommendations.

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Landslides
A landslide occurs when soil, rock, or debris moves down a slope. It may be caused by weak soil conditions, heavy rainfall, groundwater, erosion, excavation, poor drainage, or changes to the natural terrain.

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Rockfall
Rockfall occurs when loose rock breaks away from a steep slope, cliff, or exposed rock face. Falling rocks can pose a risk to buildings, roads, people, and other structures located below or near the slope.

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Erosion
Erosion is the gradual removal of soil by water, snowmelt, wind, or drainage. Over time, it can weaken slopes, expose foundations, damage drainage systems, and increase the potential for slope movement.

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Development Risk
Development activities—such as excavation, grading, drainage changes, retaining walls, roads, or new buildings—can affect the stability of a site. A geohazard assessment identifies these risks and provides recommendations to help manage them before construction begins.

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When You May Need a Geohazard Assessment

A geohazard assessment may be required for building permits, subdivisions, hillside development, retaining walls, access roads, excavation, or properties with concerns related to slope stability, erosion, landslides, rockfall, or drainage. It may also be requested by a local government, building official, lender, or approving authority.