Site Classification for residential developments

For sites with basements always use following term regardless of

classification
However, the proposed development appears to fall outside the scope of the
AS2870 2011 and the design should be based on engineering principles.

Class P classification can be avoided by deepening the depth of founding

level to stable soil profile to avoid shrink/swell of soil due to moisture
change
Notwithstanding the CLASS P site classification, application of AS2870-2011
Standard Designs as per CLASS M is appropriate subject to;
a) Footing design modifications as outlined in Section 7.5
b) Measures are taken which will provide normal moisture conditions within the
construction envelope (see section 6.0)
Section 7.5
It is essential that all foundation excavations be based in natural soil which is
neither soft nor saturated. Should such conditions be encountered, then additional
deepening to achieve a firm excavation base is required.
Should installation of new stumps will require under high load points associated
with new addition then such stumps should be designed according to the
recommendations given in the section 7.3.
Section 6.0
Ensure existing footings and related structures are removed sufficiently so as not
to interfere with new footings.
Abnormal soil moisture conditions are likely to occur through areas from which
buildings, paving or trees have been recently removed. Such abnormal conditions
will diminish with time, particularly during winter months when frequent rainfall is
experienced. Allow the maximum possible time to elapse between removal of
buildings, pavements or trees and the commencement of new construction.
OR

The Standard sets out the criteria for the classification of a site and the
design and construction of a footing system for a single dwelling house,
townhouse or similar structure which may be detached or separated by a
party wall or common wall, but not situated vertically above or below
another dwelling, including buildings classified as Class 1 and Class 10a in
the Building Code of Australia. The Standard may also be used for other

forms of construction, including some light industrial, commercial and

institutional buildings if they are similar to houses in size, loading and
superstructure flexibility. The footing systems for which designs are given
include slab on ground, stiffened rafts, waffle rafts, strip footings, pad
footings and piled footings.

Use Appendix D in AS2870 2011 to classify site according to the soil

profile