We will survey all accessible floors in the property and provide plans showing all visible walls, windows, doors, spot height levels, ceiling/roof heights, window sill/head heights.
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A measured survey is a type of survey that involves a spatial study of a building or structure to gather precise data, which is then utilised to draw architectural scale drawings. These drawings are the core information that aids architects and planners in taking the project through the subsequent stages of design and planning for the property’s development.
Measured building surveys – as they are also known – can vary in the level of detail they obtain and the scale at which they are drawn, depending on their purpose. They can range from simple floorplans to full measured building surveys, encompassing internal and external elevations, or even including details such as fixtures, power supply outlets, and light fittings.
These on-site building surveys provide accurate measured data that can be used to create as-built drawings for architects, quantity surveyors, owners, and other property professionals.
XP Surveys conduct measured surveys using state-of-the-art measuring equipment like the Trimble X7 or the Leica RTC360 laser scanners, operated by experienced surveyors. XP Surveys prides itself on fast, reliable, and accurate survey drawings for architects, engineers, agents, and property professionals. Data and drawings are supplied to your required level of quality and output as fast as five days from booking, for properties in London and the Home Counties. Use our quote feature or contact us for advice.
Measured building surveys can be tailored to suit various requirements, with the type of survey chosen based on the level of detail needed and the intended use of the data. The different types of surveys cater to a wide range of projects, from basic renovations to complex structural changes or property developments.
| Type of Measured Survey | Description | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Floor Plan Surveys | Provide the essential layout of a property, capturing internal wall positions, door and window openings, room dimensions, and structural elements. | Ideal for straightforward renovations or space planning. |
| Elevational Surveys | Include detailed measurements of the external faces of a building, documenting structural elements and architectural features such as window sills, doors, and rooflines. | Used in planning applications or facade restoration projects. |
| Internal and External Elevation Surveys | Extend detail to both interior and exterior, mapping outer surfaces as well as internal features such as beams, columns, and decorative mouldings. | Useful for refurbishments and restorations needing detailed analysis. |
| Detailed Measured Surveys | Include additional information such as fixtures, fittings, power supply outlets, lighting, and specific internal elements. | Essential for large-scale refurbishments or complex projects. |
| 3D Laser Scanning Surveys | Use advanced equipment to capture high-density point cloud data, which can be used to create accurate 3D models and BIM outputs. | Ideal for complex structures requiring a highly accurate representation. |
| Topographical Surveys | Map the surrounding land and landscape features, providing context for developments that may involve external changes. | Complements measured surveys for projects involving extensions or landscaping. |
Measured building surveys in London, or elsewhere, provide the necessary data for architects, engineers, and planners to move forward confidently with a project. The choice of survey type will depend on the project’s requirements, ensuring that all relevant details are captured to the appropriate level of detail.
The chief benefits our clients appreciate in our measured building survey service, carried out by one of our professional measured building surveyors, are accuracy, clarity, and both time-and-cost effectiveness.
Your XP measured building surveyor will use up-to-date, advanced technology to gather extremely accurate measurement data; this includes laser scanning, building information modelling (BIM) and drones.
When the results of this technology are combined, it is possible to quickly construct 2D and 3D representations of the building or structure, in your preferred software’s file format (often Revit or ArchiCad).
This accuracy of information also enables architects to work in harmony with the building or structure’s existing features, and contractors to use the data throughout the project as an accurate point of reference. The measured survey, including detailed floor plan data, is also a valuable source of information for future projects such as renovation, alterations, or rebuilding.
Dimensional inaccuracies can quickly lead to delays, increased labour and material costs, and wastage. Tight deadlines and limited budgets can be controlled more easily with a measured survey, as the accuracy of its findings reduces the likelihood of unforeseen obstacles and errors during design and execution.
XP Surveys’ surveyors are highly trained and experienced, using the latest 3D scanning and measuring technology, and pride themselves on a rapid response to your inquiry and the delivery of your drawings. To obtain a quote for a measured building survey, simply use our quote button on this page for a quick quote for the scope of your survey.
A measured survey is necessary at various stages of property development and management to ensure accurate planning and execution. The specific instances when a measured survey is required include:
Measured surveys are vital throughout the lifecycle of a property, from initial planning to ongoing maintenance, providing accurate data that supports informed decision-making and project success.
In the United Kingdom, the cost of a measured survey naturally depends on the size of the building or structure and the complexity of the detail that is required to be included. The use of specialist surveying equipment may also incur higher costs.
At XP Surveys, we offer a unique Instant Quote tool to provide a cost for your measured survey within minutes. We use property data from EPC’s and Ordnance Survey information together with our bespoke pricing algorithm to provide instant quotes online and a full calendar booking system all the way through to payment online – for your ease and speed.
Having a clear idea of what is required for the survey can help to minimise the cost as it will prevent unnecessary details from being included and additional site visits to be made to gather further information. Our online quoting system will help you choose the right survey details for you, and our team is always on hand via phone or email should you have any questions.
A typical measured building survey for a 3-bedroom house would cost £1,200 +VAT.
Measured building surveys provide essential data and documentation that serve as a foundation for various architectural, engineering, and construction projects. The deliverables from a measured survey can be customised to meet the specific needs of the project, ensuring that all critical aspects are covered. Here’s what you can typically expect:
Customisable Output Formats
The survey deliverables can be provided in various formats, such as CAD drawings, PDFs, or 3D models, depending on the client’s requirements. For projects utilising Building Information Modelling (BIM), the survey data can be integrated into BIM software to facilitate a more dynamic design and management process.
Getting started with a measured survey is straightforward when you partner with the right surveying professionals. Begin by reaching out to experienced surveyors who specialise in providing measured building surveys. They will guide you through the process, explain the scope of work, and discuss the specific details needed for your project.
It’s essential to clearly define the client’s requirements from the outset. This involves determining the level of detail needed, the areas to be surveyed, and the final deliverables, such as floor plans, elevations, or 3D models. Understanding these requirements ensures the survey is tailored to your needs and provides the most relevant information.
Choose a survey provider known for being prompt and professional, as timely responses and efficient execution can significantly impact project timelines. A reliable surveyor will not only deliver accurate data but also adhere to agreed schedules, helping to keep your project on track from the start.
Engaging with skilled surveying professionals who understand your project’s unique demands will ensure a seamless process and high-quality results.
3D laser scanning offers numerous benefits for measured surveys, providing a highly efficient and accurate way of taking measurements. It allows experienced surveyors to capture precise data in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods, significantly reducing the risk of human error. The technology can measure complex structures and detailed elements with exceptional accuracy, resulting in reliable survey data for projects of any scale.
Additionally, 3D laser scanning produces a comprehensive digital representation of the space, creating a point cloud that can be used for various applications, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) and creating as-built drawings. The process ensures that measurements are not only detailed but also consistent, making it ideal for projects requiring a high degree of precision, such as refurbishments, extensions, or structural assessments.
By leveraging the expertise of experienced surveyors and the capabilities of 3D laser scanning, projects can achieve a higher standard of accuracy, ultimately leading to more informed decision-making and successful outcomes.
The duration depends on the type of survey and the size and complexity of the property. Simple floor plan surveys for smaller properties may take a few hours, while more detailed surveys, such as those including elevations or 3D laser scanning, can take several days. The surveyor will provide a time estimate based on the specific requirements of your project.
The simple way to understand the difference between a measured survey and a topographical survey is that a measured survey relates to buildings and structures, while a topographical survey relates to land.
 A topographical survey is likely to be carried out for residential or commercial development on a greenfield or brownfield site, whereas a measured survey will relate to a specific building or structure.
Measured Building Example:
Topographical Land Example:
Measured building surveyors will use a variety of low-tech and high-tech equipment to obtain the required data, ranging from the humble tape measure to 3D laser scanners, ground penetrating radar and GPS equipment. XP Surveys use state-of-the-art equipment for measuring and scanning, delivering traditional 2D drawings and 3D BIM files.
The survey process also varies depending on its purpose but typically may start with external and internal dimensions being recorded, followed by the location of below-ground and above-ground services. In the case of a restoration project, it is more likely that architectural features and fittings will be recorded in greater detail.
Our surveyors are equipped, trained and ready for whichever level of detail and output you require.
Scan to BIM is the process of using 3D laser scanning to capture the existing conditions of a building or structure and then converting the scanned data into a Building Information Modeling (BIM) model. The process begins with creating a detailed point cloud from the laser scan, which is then used to generate an accurate 3D representation of the building’s features and elements. This BIM model serves as a valuable resource for architects, engineers, and construction professionals, allowing for precise planning, design, and management of renovation, refurbishment, or new construction projects.
We’re looking forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve the best results from your survey.
We work across Greater London and the Home Counties: Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Middlesex, Oxfordshire, Surrey, and Sussex. Get an instant quote online today for your measured survey in Greater London or the Home Counties.
We will survey all accessible floors in the property and provide plans showing all visible walls, windows, doors, spot height levels, ceiling/roof heights, window sill/head heights.
We will survey all accessible and visible sides of the property and provide elevation drawings showing the building outline, ridge/eaves heights, all external distinguishing elements such as windows, doors, rainwater pipes and other detailing. We will also include the outline of buildings within 3m of the host building.
Provided where our equipment has full visibility of the roof lines from ground level, we will note any estimated roof details on our drawings.
These are 'cut-through' cross-sectional drawings showing wall and floor details.
Select a topographical survey level to find out more.
Will include the visible boundary outline only together with immediate ground levels around any buildings, and visible drainage cover location/levels.
This topo will include the visible boundary outline, all key features and immediate ground levels within 3m of any buildings, and visible drainage cover location/levels.
Will include boundaries (including type and heights), building OUTLINES, adjoining buildings, trees, hardstanding, walls, fences, hedges, flowerbeds, kerblines, verges, manhole / service covers (including cover level), etc. plus all other visible salient features of the area.
We use Area data from your property's EPC certificate and the UK Ordnance Survey database to calculate your quote estimate. If there is not enough data in the UK database we cannot provide an instant quote, but one of our team will be able to provide a formal written quote by email within 48 working hours. If the database holds incorrect data on your property you will still be provided an estimate, but our fee is subject to change to suit the actual size of your property
Your chosen outputs:
"I have found incredible flexibility and helpfulness in the XP Surveys team. In my last 10 professional years, I have rarely found a business, surveyors or otherwise, to be as useful, approachable and competitive as them. It helps provide confidence to myself and my clients alike."
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Or call 0333 335 5085
Or call 0333 335 5085
Or call 0333 335 5085