Surveying

We are at the forefront of the profession, embracing the latest technology – 3D laser scanners, robotic total station instrumentation, and dual frequency global positioning systems (GPS). Field work is followed by data processing, and drawing production using high spec computer systems and industry standard software. We offer a complete surveying service.

We are equipped to tackle any job, anywhere in the UK, regardless of size or complexity. Our robotic total stations are equipped with reflector-less technology for remote measurement up to 400m when access is not available. Instruments are motorised with an automatic target recognition function which allows our surveyors to automatically track, measure and record targets. This allows surveys to be more efficient, faster and more accurate.

A good topographical survey should be the basis of all design and site development. We have many years experience providing 2D and 3D survey solutions. Using modern surveying equipment and techniques, our surveyors provide highly detailed 1:100 scale plans through to 1:1250 mapping. Our surveys are used by a wide range of clients, and for a variety of purposes. The level of detail can be tailored to clients requirements and budget.

Field data is processed using software developed in-house over the last 25 years, giving us the flexibility to customise our output exactly to client requirements. Our topographical surveys are normally provided in a 2D CAD format using our standard logical layering convention. 3D data can also be provide suitable for use with most ground modelling packages. Our surveyors are highly skilled at manipulating 3D data within our ground modelling software (PDS), producing cut and fill volumetric calculations, site sections, digital ground models and many other modelling and design functions.

Our surveyors have many years experience working on construction projects from simple house extensions to multi million pound projects. We can conduct as-built surveys, setting out, monitoring, level surveys, installation of site control, post demolition surveys, verticality checks and general measurement and dimensional troubleshooting.

As-built surveys often include drainage details for section 104 following construction to show compliance with design. Section 38 and 278 as-builts surveys also for onsite and offsite works.

Our total station and laser scanning instruments can be used for monitoring movement on site, or adjacent to site where party wall agreements are in place. We can also provide photographic condition reports – usually to safeguard claims against the client for damage to surrounding roads and property by recording before and after construction.

Our surveys have been using 3D laser scanners for the best part of 20 years, being early adopters of this technology. Most projects now include scanning in some form. In summer 2021 we invested further in a cutting edge Trimble X7 laser scanner to add to our range of surveying equipment. Our surveyors can efficiently collect millions of 3D observations in a short period of time. Using a scanner can cut out costly return visits to site, due to the completeness of the data sets typically collected. Millions of survey points can be collected in seconds, at high resolution, with real time registration on the fly, so our surveyors can check results as they go.

The scanner has an onboard digital camera which can record 360 degree panoramic images at each scan location, and allows colourisation of the scan data. Full colour scan data provides a very realistic experience in CAD. The imagery can be shared online or locally via USB stick with a free viewer, giving design teams collaborative access to the site from their desktops.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a process using various software tools to support the intelligent referencing of a 3D model for useful cross discipline collaboration. For example, from a 3D laser scanned point cloud of a building we can create a 3D model using AutoDesk Revit. A 3D Revit model can be a very useful tool in the entire lifecycle of a project from planning through design, construction, operation and ongoing maintenance. BIM allows project teams to work more efficiently and collaboratively.