Why Every Self-Storage Developer Needs a Geotechnical Report
- garrett581
- 9 minutes ago
- 2 min read
By Garrett Byrd
When you’re buying land for a self-storage project, the dirt under your feet might look solid… but what’s beneath the surface can make or break your deal. That’s why one of the smartest moves you can make during due diligence is ordering a geotechnical (geo-tech) report.
Think of it as an MRI for your property—it tells you what’s really going on below the ground before you pour millions into construction.
What Does a Geo-Tech Report Tell You?
Soil type and strength – Can your site actually hold up your buildings and drive aisles?
Groundwater depth – Especially in Florida, this can make or break retention ponds and utility plans.
Compaction requirements – How much site work (and money) it will take to stabilize the land
Hidden risks – Sinkholes, buried debris, or organic soils that could send your budget sideways.
Why It’s Worth Every Penny
No surprises later – You’ll know sitework and foundation costs up front.
Better bids – Contractors can price accurately when they know the soil conditions.
Stronger financing – Lenders and investors love risk reduction.
Leverage with the seller – If problems show up, you may be able to renegotiate.
When the Dirt Says “Walk Away”
Sometimes, the report uncovers issues that just don’t pencil out. Examples:
Soils so weak they require massive (and expensive) stabilization.
Water tables too high for proper drainage or stormwater systems.
Foundation costs that blow up your pro forma.
Sinkholes or contamination that are deal-killers.
Here’s the good news: if your purchase agreement has a strong due diligence clause, you can exit the deal, cancel the contract, and get your escrow deposit back.
Bottom Line
A geo-tech report might cost a few thousand dollars, but it can save you hundreds of thousands—or even your entire deal. For self-storage developers, it’s not optional. It’s a must-have tool to protect your investment and your escrow.
Pro tip: Always make your purchase contract contingent on satisfactory geotechnical, environmental, zoning, and survey reports. That way, the land only becomes yours if the numbers still work.
Want to Learn More?
Storage Authority Franchising is all about owning your own local self-storage business, supported by professional systems and expertise. We like to say, "You're in business for yourself but not by yourself." If self-storage is on your mind, don't hesitate to reach out to me.
Garrett Byrd at Direct: 941-928-1354 or Schedule a call with me
You can also email me at Garrett@StorageAuthority.com to learn more about the Storage Authority Franchise opportunity.
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