Damage to Homes May Lead to Required Soil Tests in South Dakota

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Rapid City, S.D., officials are considering requiring homebuilders to test soil conditions at building sites after homeowners complained of severe damage caused by expansive soils.

The Rapid City Journal reports the proposed change would require a home be designed to withstand destructive soil movement if testing finds conditions are poor.

Building official Brad Solon says homebuilders and their chosen soils specialist would largely be left to do the testing and determine foundation requirements.

Jim Westerman of the Natural Resources Conservation Service says clay-rich soils are prevalent in Rapid City, and they shrink and expand during dry and wet spells, causing damage to foundations.

Homeowner Joe Engelhardt says he was told his $265,000 home had an estimated $100,000 in damage caused by expansive soils, just three years after it was finished.