Whether a physical load test is necessary depends on local building codes, soil conditions, and the specific requirements of the project. While torque monitoring is the primary method used to estimate capacity during installation, physical load testing serves several critical roles:

• Mandatory Requirements: Physical load testing is typically mandatory for new commercial construction or multi-story residential projects, especially when structural loads exceed standard assumptions or when building in problematic soils like expansive clay or loose sand.
• Code Compliance: Local building departments in areas like the Denver metro region often require these tests to comply with the International Building Code and International Residential Code when soil-bearing capacity is uncertain.
• Calibration and Validation: Load tests are considered the "gold standard" for calibrating empirical torque factors (Kt). They verify that the theoretical calculations and torque-to-capacity correlations used during installation are accurate for the specific site conditions.
• Industry Recommendations: Professional organizations like NARI suggest load testing for remodeling projects that involve altered load paths or concentrated loads (such as masonry fireplaces), even if not strictly mandated by code.

In many standard residential applications, installers rely on torque monitoring for daily quality assurance, but periodic or site-specific physical load tests (such as proof load, compression, or tension tests) are used to provide documented assurance of structural integrity.