Since the stability and safety of a structure—more specifically, retaining wall structures—
depend upon the proper performance of the foundation, it is important that an adequate
foundation investigation be made. The purpose of the investigation is to provide the
designer with information concerning the engineering properties of the subsurface conditions.
Generally, a retaining wall extends for a considerable length. Accordingly, the
amount and type of foundation investigation that should be made and/or which the owner
can afford must be considered. The owner must understand that once an exploration
crew is dispatched to the site of a proposed wall, the investigation should be sufficiently
complete to allow for the selection of an appropriate wall type