I want to build a house in an area with Shrink Swell. Should I reconsider?

Goochland County has potential problem areas, however, with careful onsite investigation or analysis by structural engineers, foundations can be properly designed to address the potential movement due to shrink-swell soils. Prospective homeowners who are aware of these potential hazards can insist on a soil report and/or structural design from your contractor.  You may also negotiate a warranty with your contractor against future problems.

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1. Do shrink-swell soils go by other terms?
2. Why Do These Soils Expand?
3. I want to build a house in an area with Shrink Swell. Should I reconsider?
4. Can someone from your agency come look at my property?
5. What is an engineered soil report?
6. When is an engineered soil report required?
7. How come I have never heard of shrink-swell soil?
8. My house is already built. Is there any way to minimize the effects of shrink swell soils without having to support my foundation?
9. Where did the Goochland County map information come from?
10. Why did Goochland County update their shrink swell soil policy in 2019?
11. My foundation is settling. What can I do?
12. What enabling legislation/authority allows Goochland County to require a shrink swell soil report?