Urban Geophysics

Identify hidden subsurface features and anomalies with advanced geophysical investigations that help reduce uncertainty, manage risk, and support informed project decisions.

Receive a quote tailored to your needs

+1-855-222-8283

What is Urban Geophysics and what it includes

Not all subsurface risks are related to utilities. Many project sites contain undocumented or abandoned infrastructure, buried structures, non-conductive utilities, storage tanks, foundations, rail infrastructure, monuments, or other subsurface anomalies that may not appear in available records.

Kiwa T2's Urban Geophysics services apply advanced geophysical technologies and investigative techniques to identify, map, and assess these hidden subsurface conditions. By collecting and interpreting geophysical data, our team helps clients better understand what exists beneath the surface before excavation, construction, redevelopment, or asset management activities begin.

Urban geophysical investigations can be performed to address a specific concern, such as locating a buried structure or investigating a suspected storage tank, or as part of a broader subsurface risk assessment. Investigations are tailored to site conditions and project objectives and may incorporate a combination of technologies such as Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), electromagnetic methods, electrical resistivity techniques, and other complementary geophysical approaches where appropriate.

Who is it for?

Urban Geophysics services by Kiwa T2 are intended for municipalities, transportation authorities, consulting engineers, utility owners, land developers, architects, environmental consultants, construction contractors, facility owners, educational institutions, and infrastructure asset managers. These organizations are typically involved in planning, designing, constructing, maintaining, redeveloping, or assessing sites where unknown subsurface conditions could impact project costs, schedules, safety, or long-term asset performance.

Benefits of Urban Geophysics

  • Reduce uncertainty associated with incomplete, inaccurate, or missing records. 
  • Identify hidden subsurface risks before construction or excavation begins. 
  • Support safer project planning and execution. 
  • Help avoid unexpected delays, redesigns, and change orders. 
  • Improve decision-making through data-driven subsurface insights. 
  • Locate non-conductive, abandoned, or undocumented features that conventional utility locating methods may not detect. 
  • Provide actionable information to support infrastructure, environmental, and redevelopment projects.

Why choose Kiwa?

Kiwa T2 combines advanced geophysical technologies with extensive experience investigating complex subsurface environments. Our team develops project-specific investigation strategies based on site conditions, project objectives, and risk tolerance.

As a Canadian firm focused on identifying, managing, and mitigating subsurface risk, Kiwa T2 delivers practical, objective information that helps clients make informed decisions with greater confidence. Our multidisciplinary expertise across geophysics, subsurface utility engineering, and geospatial investigations allows us to provide a comprehensive understanding of underground conditions while producing clear, usable deliverables that integrate with project planning and design workflows.

Steps in the Process

    Project Consultation

    Discuss project objectives, site conditions, known concerns, and available records.

    Investigation Planning

    Select the most appropriate geophysical methods based on the site and target features.

    Field Data Collection

    Conduct non-destructive geophysical surveys using suitable equipment and techniques.

    Data Processing and Interpretation

    Analyze collected data to identify anomalies, subsurface features, and potential risks.

    Mapping and Reporting

    Prepare drawings, maps, and technical documentation that communicate findings clearly.

    Recommendations and Support

    Provide guidance regarding further investigation, verification, or integration into project planning activities.

Applicable Norms or Regulations

ASCE 38-22

Standard Guideline for Investigating and Documenting Existing Utilities

ASCE 75

As-Built Records for Transportation Projects

Local and industry-specific regulations for subsurface mappin

Whether you are addressing a specific subsurface concern or looking to better understand project risk, Kiwa T2 can help. Contact our team to discuss your site conditions and determine the most effective investigation approach for your project.

Related services

Frequently asked questions

What is urban geophysics?

Urban geophysics is the application of non-destructive geophysical methods to identify, map, and assess subsurface features within developed environments.

What types of features can be detected?

Investigations may identify buried foundations, abandoned rail infrastructure, storage tanks, non-conductive utilities, monuments, voids, and other subsurface anomalies depending on site conditions and target characteristics.

Does urban geophysics replace utility locating?

No. Urban geophysics complements utility locating and subsurface utility engineering by helping identify additional subsurface features and anomalies that may not be represented in records or detectable using conventional locate methods alone.

Is excavation required?

No. Most urban geophysical surveys are non-destructive and can be completed without excavation.

What deliverables are provided?

Deliverables may include maps, CAD drawings, GIS files, technical reports, interpreted anomaly locations, and recommendations for additional investigation where necessary.

When should a geophysical investigation be performed?

Urban geophysics is often beneficial during planning, design, redevelopment, due diligence, environmental investigations, infrastructure upgrades, and before excavation or construction activities begin.