What Survey Is Needed for Renovation, Extension or Planning?

The survey required for a renovation, extension or planning project depends on the building, site and proposed work.

Most projects begin with a measured building survey. Larger extensions and developments may also require topographical, utility, drainage or laser scanning information.

Measured Building Survey

A measured building survey provides accurate existing floor plans, elevations and sections.

It may also include:

• Roof plans
• Internal elevations
• Reflected ceiling plans
• Floor and ceiling levels
• Structural openings
• CAD drawings
• Point clouds
• Revit models

This gives the architect a reliable base for preparing proposed drawings.

Topographical Survey

A topographical survey may be needed where the project affects the garden, external site, access or surrounding land.

It can record:

• Ground levels
• Boundaries and fences
• Buildings and structures
• Trees and vegetation
• Roads, paths and kerbs
• Drainage covers
• Adjacent buildings
• Surrounding site context

Utility and Drainage Surveys

PAS128 utility mapping may be required where excavation, new foundations or external works could affect buried services.

Drainage CCTV surveys can help identify accessible drainage routes, pipe condition and existing connections before proposed alterations are designed.

Laser Scanning and Revit Models

Laser scanning is useful for larger, irregular or complex buildings. It creates a detailed point cloud that can be used to produce accurate drawings or a Revit model.

A Revit survey model may be appropriate where the design team is working in BIM or where several disciplines need coordinated three-dimensional existing information.

Start with a Clear Survey Brief

The quotation should identify:

• Survey extent
• Required drawings or models
• External site coverage
• Visible service requirements
• Accuracy and drawing scale
• File formats
• Access arrangements
• Programme

Cura Surveys can combine building, land, utility and drainage information into one coordinated survey package.