Small Soil Testing Lab for Contractors

Earthwork and paving contractors, home builders, engineering firms and developers who need fast, local testing.

A fee per test or per sample batch, with rush fees for fast turnaround and ongoing work from regular contractors. Pairing the lab with field sampling adds revenue.

• Precise, methodical lab work
• Understanding standard soil test methods
• Client communication and report writing

• Many public and commercial projects only accept results from accredited labs or reports signed by a licensed professional engineer, so check what your target clients require
• Equipment must be calibrated regularly, and poor results can lead to costly disputes
• General liability, professional liability and property insurance
• Zoning, local business license and waste disposal rules for your unit
• Startup costs are higher and building a client base can take months

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the rented unit, testing equipment and calibration, and insurance. Costs are higher than for mobile sampling, and building a client base can take months.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your equipment, turnaround speed and how many contractors and engineering firms send you samples. Plan on around 30 hours a week or more.

Many public and commercial projects only accept results from accredited labs or reports signed by a licensed professional engineer, so check what your target clients require. Also check equipment calibration, insurance, zoning, business license and waste disposal rules.