Don’t worry, there are ways to handle it. First, you should get a geotechnical engineer to check the site. They’ll tell you exactly how much the clay might move.
A good option is a deep foundation, like piers or piles. They go down past the clay to stable soil or rock. That way, your house stays steady even if the clay shifts.
You could use a slab foundation, but you’d need to make it stronger. Add extra reinforcement, like more rebar, and make sure it’s thick enough. Also, put a layer of gravel or sand under it to help with drainage.
Clay holds water, and too much water makes it swell more. So, you want to keep water away from the foundation. Slope the ground away from the house, and install gutters to direct rainwater.
Yeah, keep an eye on the soil after you build. Don’t let it get too dry or too wet. Plant some grass or shrubs around the house to stabilize the soil, but not too close to the foundation.
