For peace of mind: Cook Costello
Buying any form of property is a major investment, worth checking out thoroughly before spending hard-earned cash.
Peace of mind is essential, particularly in a family home, and that’s where geotechnical engineering company Cook Costello can allay any fears about property safety.
The Canterbury earthquake sequence highlighted the importance of geotechnical investigations, and good foundation design, as has recent flooding and slips in the North Island and close by in Nelson/Tasman. With land access and building become more challenging too, there’s an increased risk of unseen dangers lurking underneath the natural scenic beauty. These include the state of the land on which the house’s foundation sits or will sit, and whether the design itself is structurally sound and sustainable. 
All these elements are integrated into what multi-faceted engineering company, Cook Costello has been offering land and homeowners for more than 45 years.
The team recognises that a successful project starts with a good understanding of the ground, and in partnership with its sister organisation GeoCivil, and its own IANZ-accredited soil testing laboratory, it can provide clients with sound and reliable advice regarding land performance.
Experienced geotechnical engineers deliver a broad range of service options, from shallow investigations using hand-held equipment to deep investigations using mechanical drilling rigs and more advanced laboratory testing for more challenging ground conditions. They test all manner of sites to New Zealand standards, and the company can provide solutions and design site-specific, cost-effective and appropriate foundations.
Engaging a geotechnical engineer at the pre-purchase stage gives you the best chance of success, the engineer will be able to advise you about the key natural hazards to consider at any particular location. Where necessary, the engineer
will recommend options for either eliminating or mitigating the hazards, possibly with retaining structures or ground improvements.
“Before investing in a new property, give us a call to discuss your plans,” says director Phil Cook. “Cook Costello has a team of dedicated engineering experts that can assist you with finding your dream home, from pre-purchase right through to building consent. We also have a strong focus on safety and sustainability.
“We will work with you to carry out a pre-purchase assessment, ensure that the property is safe and economic to develop, and will perform well even during future extreme storm or earthquake events. Kick things off on the right foot by calling in the experts to assess the land or property to avoid any unpleasant surprises further down the track.”
Contact Cook Costello on 03 365 5960.
