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  Colin Hunt June 28, 2015 at 1:26pm

  Goodness me, this takes me back to the 'good old days' of the 70's and 80's!  You had what you had and just had to get on with it!  

  In this case Richard, it will depend on what is under the builder's 'top soil'.  Let's say there is 150mm on top of existing ground or sub soil, then replace the 150mm.  If on the other hand they have made up greater levels, I would tend replace 250-300mm.

  If cost is a factor, then it may be possible to add organic matter and even sand if if is clay based, to what is there and rotavate deep.
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  James Brett June 28, 2015 at 4:46pm

  When asked to do this we dig small test pits through the garden. Once down to clear soil we go 50mm to below the 'bad soil' to ensure we get all of the 'bad' out. Try to get materials in loose as it becomes cheaper and easier to move
• PRO

  Richard Humphreys June 28, 2015 at 8:06pm

  Thanks for your replies I think we will have to take out about 300mm depth to be sure!
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    James Brett > Richard Humphreys June 28, 2015 at 8:08pm

    some test pits is the best way. That way the client can see your being upfront and you can present a honest case with facts. Does make a difference!
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  David Cox June 29, 2015 at 7:39pm

  From experience, some times you can dig out with a gridle bucket on a mini digger, sift out the big rocks etc and then add in alot of sand / compost material, rotovate to 300mm and then you have a good top soil! Often quicker and cheapre than all out all in