Mobile Soil Sampling and Percolation Testing

Home builders, land buyers, septic installers, small developers, and engineering or surveying firms that need field data.

A flat fee per site visit or per test hole, plus a charge for sample handling and a written field report. Repeat work from builders and engineers matters most.

• Comfortable with outdoor physical work
• Careful note-taking and record keeping
• Basic understanding of soil types and site conditions

• Many states or counties require a licensed soil evaluator, sanitarian or professional engineer to sign off on septic or construction results, so check what you can legally certify
• General liability and professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance, since bad results can be costly for clients
• Call 811 before digging to locate underground utilities
• Wet weather, frozen ground and rocky soil can delay jobs and cut your income
• Check local business license rules and any limits on running a business from home

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your digging and sampling equipment, vehicle needs, insurance and any partner lab arrangements. Costs vary with how much equipment you buy new.

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many sites you visit and what you charge. Wet weather, frozen ground and rocky soil can delay jobs and cut income. It starts at around 15 hours a week.

Many states or counties require a licensed soil evaluator, sanitarian or professional engineer to sign off on septic or construction results, so check what you can legally certify. Also check insurance, calling 811 before digging, and local business license rules.