Retaining Wall Geotechnical Review

Retaining walls on sloped residential lots can fail if soil pressure, drainage, and footing conditions aren't properly evaluated. GeoTed reviews existing and proposed retaining walls for homeowners, contractors, and designers — providing practical findings on wall condition, soil loading, and drainage performance.

Request a Site Review

When to Request a Retaining Wall Review

A wall is showing cracks, leaning, bulging, or has separated from adjacent walls
You're planning a new retaining wall and need geotechnical input for the design
A wall was built without permits and you need documentation of existing conditions
Drainage behind a wall is failing or causing soil saturation
A plan checker has requested a geotechnical investigation for a proposed wall
You're buying a property with walls you're uncertain about

What GeoTed Reviews

GeoTed evaluates the geotechnical and geologic conditions relevant to retaining wall performance. Findings address the soil and site factors affecting wall stability, drainage, and long-term performance.

Visible wall condition — cracking, movement, drainage, and distress
Soil type and estimated loading behind the wall
Drainage conditions and evidence of hydrostatic pressure
Slope and grading conditions above and below the wall
Foundation and footing conditions where accessible
Recommendations for monitoring, repair, or further investigation

What to Send GeoTed

Send the property address, a description of the wall (height, material, age if known), and photos if available. Note whether the concern is an existing wall or a proposed new wall. GeoTed will advise on scope and next steps.

Send Project Information

Service Area

GeoTed provides retaining wall geotechnical reviews throughout Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, Ventura County, and surrounding Southern California communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

My retaining wall is cracking — is that dangerous?

It depends on the type and extent of cracking, the wall's construction, and what's behind it. Hairline cracks in older masonry walls are common and may not be critical. Horizontal cracking, significant leaning, or bulging can indicate active soil pressure that warrants prompt evaluation.

Do I need a geotechnical report to build a new retaining wall?

Often yes, especially for walls over a certain height or on sloped lots. Most jurisdictions in Los Angeles and Ventura County require geotechnical input for retaining walls above 4 feet, and many require it for shorter walls on unstable or sloped sites.

Can GeoTed provide findings my contractor or structural engineer can use?

Yes. GeoTed's geotechnical and geologic findings on soil conditions, loading, and drainage are the input your structural engineer or contractor needs to design or repair a retaining wall appropriately.

What causes retaining walls to fail in Southern California?

The most common causes are poor drainage (hydrostatic pressure builds behind the wall), expansive soils that increase lateral pressure during wet seasons, inadequate original design, and undocumented fill that creates uneven loading conditions.