What is a Hydrogeological Engineer?

A Hydrogeological Engineer (or Hydrogeologist) specialises in assessing how groundwater may interact with your proposed development. They conduct investigations and prepare a Hydrogeological Impact Assessment (HIA) to help ensure your project doesn’t negatively affect groundwater quality, flow, or nearby water-dependent ecosystems.

What does a Hydrogeological Engineer do?

Your Hydrogeological Engineer will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a Hydrogeological Engineer will:

Assess site conditions using soil and groundwater data

Identify nearby aquifers, groundwater tables, or contamination risks

Conduct site investigations (e.g. boreholes, soil sampling, monitoring wells if needed)

Evaluate the potential impacts of your development on local groundwater

Prepare a Hydrogeological Impact Assessment (HIA) suitable for submission to council or environmental regulators



Their assessment supports compliance with environmental and water resource protection regulations, especially for developments in sensitive or high-water-table areas.

Barry's Toolbox

Don’t wait for council to request a hydro report — if your site is near a known groundwater zone or on a slope, it’s better to get ahead of it and avoid DA delays.

What to look for in a Hydrogeological Engineer

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Relevant experience: Look for consultants with experience in residential or mixed-use developments in groundwater-sensitive areas.
  • Field capability: They should be able to conduct on-site groundwater sampling or coordinate borehole testing if needed.
  • Regulatory familiarity: Choose someone who understands state environmental planning policies (e.g. SEPP Water) and local council requirements.
  • Clarity: Their reports should clearly explain risks and mitigation measures — this helps smooth council approvals.
  • Insurance: Confirm they carry professional indemnity and public liability coverage.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Hydrogeological Engineers for a Hydrogeological Impact Assessment, you’ll need:

  • Site address and zoning/environmental overlays
  • Approved development plans (if available)
  • Site history or prior land use (if known)
  • Details of any existing groundwater issues or boreholes
  • Your timeline for DA submission or environmental approvals

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 3-5 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who reviews the Hydrogeological Report?

    Council or state environmental regulators will assess it during the DA or CDC approval process.

  • Can a hydro report delay my build?

    It can if requested late. That’s why it’s important to get it done early if there’s a known groundwater trigger on your site.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.