Land Surveys FAQ

Topographical Surveys

Topographical Land Surveys

What is a Topographical Survey?

A Topographical Survey is a detailed map of the land, showing its natural and man-made features such as buildings, trees, slopes, and boundaries.

How is a Topographical Survey carried out?

A topographical survey involves on-site measurements by surveyors to capture details about natural and man-made features of a specific area. Using tools like Total Stations & GPS, distances, angles, and elevations are measured. The collected data is then processed and mapped, creating a detailed representation of the terrain. This information is crucial for construction, planning, and mapping purposes.

How long does a Topographical Survey take?

The time it takes to complete a topographical survey is dependent on the size and complexity of the site. For example two sites of the same size may take a different amount of time to survey on site and process in the office. If one site is flat with limited detail like an open field or laid to lawn garden and the second is an in use industrial yard or a steeply sloping landscaped garden, one will take longer to get around and have more detail to draw then the other. For a guideline you would expect an average residential property to take 1-2 days on site and 1 day of office work.

How much does a Topographical Survey cost?

As with how long will a survey take it all depends on the size, location and detail of a site. Unfortunately there is no standard site for a Topographical Survey and that means there is no standard price. The best way to find the cost of your Topographical Survey is to get in touch for a quote. For a little more on the subject Checkatrade has written an article. click here.

Can I get an example of your Work?

Yes we are happy to provide examples of our work.
For a topographical survey example click here.
For a floor plan example click here.
For a elevations & Sections example click here.

Measured Building Surveys

Measured Building Surveys/Floor Plans

What is a measured building survey?

A Measured Building Survey is a detailed assessment of a structure's dimensions, capturing accurate data on its layout, features, and spatial relationships. Using precise measurement tools and techniques, this survey provides essential information for architectural design, renovation, and space planning, ensuring accurate and comprehensive documentation of a building's physical characteristics.

How is a measured building survey carried out?

A Measured Building Survey is carried out using advanced tools like total stations and laser scanners. Surveyors use these instruments along side traditional taping methods to accurately measure and map a building's dimensions, layout, and features. Total stations help with precise angle and distance measurements, while laser scanners quickly capture detailed 3D information.

How long does a measured building survey take?

The duration of a measured building survey can vary depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the building, accessibility to all areas, the level of detail required, and the specific techniques and tools used for the survey. In general an average 3 bed house will take 1 day on site and 3-4 days in the office.

How much does a measured building Survey cost?

As with how long will a survey take it all depends on the size, location and detail of a site. Unfortunately there is no standard site for a measured building survey and that means there is no standard price. The best way to find the cost of your survey is to get in touch for a quote. For a little more on the subject Checkatrade has written an article. click here.

Can I get an example of your Work?

Yes we are happy to provide examples of our work.
For a topographical survey example click here.
For a floor plan example click here.
For a elevations & Sections example click here.

Land Surveys

General FAQs

What is a Total station?

A total station is a surveying instrument used to measure horizontal and vertical angles, distances, and elevations with high accuracy. It combines an electronic theodolite (a device for measuring horizontal and vertical angles) with an electronic distance meter (EDM) to precisely measure distances using infrared or laser technology.


Total stations are commonly used in various surveying applications, including land surveying, construction layout, and engineering projects. They provide precise and efficient data collection, allowing surveyors to accurately map terrain, establish property boundaries, and create detailed site plans. Total stations are essential tools for achieving accurate and reliable measurements in the field of surveying.

What is a laser scanner?

In surveying, a laser scanner is a high-tech instrument used to capture detailed three-dimensional (3D) data of objects, surfaces, or environments. Laser scanners emit laser beams that sweep across the area being surveyed, measuring the distance to objects and surfaces by calculating the time it takes for the laser beam to reflect back to the scanner.


These scanners can capture millions of points in a matter of seconds, creating a highly accurate and comprehensive representation of the surveyed area in 3D. This data can then be used for various purposes such as creating detailed models, assessing terrain features, conducting structural analysis, and planning construction or renovation projects. Laser scanners are valued for their speed, precision, and ability to capture complex geometries, making them indispensable tools in modern surveying practices.

How will my drawings be issued?

Your survey drawings will be issued in two formats: .dwg and .pdf.


.DWG format: This is a file format used primarily for computer-aided design (CAD) drawings. It's commonly associated with AutoCAD software and is widely used in the architectural, engineering, and construction industries.


.PDF format: This stands for Portable Document Format, and it's a universal file format developed by Adobe. PDF files preserve the layout and formatting of documents across different platforms and devices. They are commonly used for sharing documents that need to be viewed or printed exactly as intended, regardless of the software or operating system being used.

What surveying services do you offer?

For a list of the different services we offer please check out our other services page here. If you don't see a service you require or have something specific in mind please get in touch and we will do our best to help Contact Us.

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