Topographical Surveys

A Topographical Survey or Land Survey is the process required to produce an accurate representation of an external site or area of interest, showing all natural and man-made features.

Features and levels are presented on a scaled survey drawing prepared using the latest CAD software.

Survey information is collected on site by our experienced surveyors using highly accurate surveying equipment such as robotic total stations, GPS, and laser scanners.

Why would a Topographical Survey be required?

A survey to determine the existing detail of an area may be required for design or planning purposes. It can be used to assist redevelopment or alteration to existing sites. It will identify the location of buildings and features on site as well as their relationship with the surrounding area. It will also provide a representation of the ground level changes across the site and an give insight into the general landscape.

What’s included within a typical Topographical Survey drawing?

A standard topographical survey drawing will include all above ground, existing manmade and natural features. A typical survey will include (but not be limited to) the following features:

What format will the survey be provided in?

Topographical survey drawings are typically supplied in 2D AutoCAD format with accompanying PDF files. Hard copies can be provided if requested.

We can also provide topographical surveys as both 3D CAD and Revit “toposurface/toposolid” outputs. Revit surface files are usually supplied with any Scan to Revit/Scan to “BIM-Ready” models.

What will the survey cost?

Every site will be assessed individually. Many different factors are taken into account such as size and type of land use. The cost will be dependent on these variables. Our team will provide a fixed price proposal which will include all site time, office time, travel costs, and any other overheads.

In order to provide a cost, our team will need the following information:

Location of the site.
Extent and scope of the survey. Preferably on a site plan or aerial mapping image.
Details of any access limitations or health and safety issues.
Survey data format.
Client Specification (if relevant)

What will the survey involve?

Our survey teams employ various different survey methods dependent on the nature and condition of the site. The equipment and method chosen by the surveyor will also be dependent on the accuracy requirements for the project. In the majority of cases the survey team will require full access throughout the survey area, and utilise a combination of total stations, GNSS (GPS) equipment and laser scanners to record the survey information required.

If suitable, the team may use aerial survey methods to measure some or all of the site remotely.

How long will it take?

The time required to carry out the survey will depend a combination of factors as discussed above. Timescale estimates will be provided along with the proposal fees.

Our surveyors use advanced technology such as laser scanners and robotic total stations to ensure that the measured survey is conducted on site as quickly as possible.

We have a dedicated and experienced team of CAD technicians and 3D Modellers ready and waiting to convert the survey data into drawings as soon as the collected information reaches the survey office.

All of our surveys are carried out to the high standards of the RICS specification "Surveys of Land, Buildings and Utility Services at Scales of 1:500 and Larger"

Scan & Model also provide Underground Service Tracing – see our Utilities page for more details.

Building Footprints

Inspection Covers

Ground Levels

Permanent Structures

Street Furniture

Structure Heights

Boundary Features

Tree Positions/Sizes

Kerbs

Surface Drainage

Surface Materials