Are your concrete slabs and footings up to Australian Standards?
Footings and slabs form the structural base of most residential buildings in Australia, and if they’re not designed and installed in accordance with current standards, the results can be costly. Cracking, subsidence, and structural issues often stem from overlooked details in slab or footing systems. That’s why the Australian Standards concrete slabs and footings fall under strict regulation, with AS 2870 setting out the national benchmark for residential builds. Whether you're working on a new home, extension or rebuild, understanding these standards is essential for compliant, long-lasting construction.
Key areas to check for slab and footing compliance
Compliance with AS 2870 isn’t just about choosing the right concrete — it’s about ensuring all aspects of the slab or footing system meet the requirements for your specific site. Key areas to review include:
- Site classification: Soil testing defines whether a site is stable, reactive, or likely to experience significant ground movement
- Footing type: Options such as pad footings, strip footings, braced stumps, or full slab-on-ground must suit the soil and structural demands
- Slab design and thickness: Slab depth and reinforcement vary based on soil conditions and building loads
- Moisture management: Drainage, vapour barriers, and perimeter protection help reduce moisture changes under the slab
- Documentation: Engineering drawings and certification must align with the Standard and local building codes
What is AS 2870 and why does it matter for your residential slabs and footings?
AS 2870 Residential Slabs and Footings is the official Standard published by Standards Australia Limited that governs how slabs and footing systems must be designed and constructed across the country. This Standard applies to houses and similar low-rise buildings, and its purpose is to limit structural damage caused by moisture changes, reactive clay sites, and other significant ground movement. It outlines acceptable methods, engineering principles, and minimum requirements for work on residential sites, including how to respond to the site classification determined by soil testing. For anyone in the construction industry, understanding AS 2870 is key to delivering safe, compliant builds.
Common compliance mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Even experienced builders can run into compliance issues if the Standard isn't followed closely. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Pouring slabs without a recent site classification report
- Using generic footing designs instead of those engineered for reactive clay sites
- Underestimating slab thickness or reinforcement on poor soil
- Neglecting moisture control around slab edges and footings
- Failing to coordinate documentation and inspections with local building authorities
These issues not only compromise structural integrity but can also delay approvals and increase rectification costs. Avoiding them starts with clear planning and communication between designers, engineers, and contractors.
How to make sure your slab meets Australian standards
The best way to ensure your slab and footing system complies with AS 2870 is to work from the ground up — starting with accurate site testing and a qualified structural engineer. From there, follow a documented approach that includes:
- Using the correct footing system for your site classification
- Reviewing slab layout and reinforcement in detail
- Ensuring all construction is carried out in accordance with the engineering drawings
- Confirming all concrete pours, formwork, and preparation meet the prescribed methods and materials
- Keeping full documentation for inspections, certifications, and warranties
Access to detailed information and technical support will help your team navigate compliance efficiently, especially on complex or high-risk sites.
Get Pumped works to Australian standards on every project
At Get Pumped, we support builders, engineers, and concreters with concrete pumping services that align with Australian Standards concrete slabs and footings. Whether you're working on pad footings, strip footings, or full slab installations, our team is experienced in handling projects on reactive clay sites, managing challenging access, and coordinating with engineers and site supervisors to ensure every pour meets compliance requirements. With a focus on timing, accuracy, and safety, we help you deliver slab and footing work in a timely manner, without cutting corners. If you're planning a slab pour and need a team that understands construction to industry standards, get in touch today.
