When you have a design, refurbishment or fit-out project on the horizon, you’re probably raring to go and get stuck in. However, every successful design or construction project needs to start with accurate information. After all, without a solid understanding of the building, architects, engineers and other contractors won’t be able to put together proper proposals.
Getting a measured survey is the best way to get precise dimensional data that can be used as the foundation of the project as a whole. Assumptions on dimensions just won’t cut it, nor will outdated drawings and floorplans - it needs to be based on solid, up-to-date information, as this is how you can minimise risks and even avoid costly mistakes further down the road.
What is a measured survey?
A measured survey involves taking measurements of buildings or sites, detailing the dimensions and layout to produce detailed drawings that are an accurate representation of a property. It can meticulously measure every feature of a building, from walls and windows to architectural detailing.
There are a few different methods for measured surveys, some of them pretty high-tech. 3D laser scanners are commonly used, which essentially fire out laser beams to collect hundreds of thousands of points of data to create a 3D impression of a building. Total stations are also common, which are electronic devices that can measure distance and angles to make sure everything is measured in the correct position relative to each other. For hard to reach areas, drones can be used to capture aerial imagery.
Regardless of the method, the information gained from the survey can be presented in a format that’s right for the needs of the project, such as floor plans, elevations, site plans and 3D models. The level of detail also depends on how the data will be used, ranging from simple floor plans to something far more in-depth.
Although some properties will have historic plans, or drawings from the estate agents, there’s no guarantee that these are up to date. Measured surveys show how the building looks at that point in time, including any alterations that might not have been recorded.
Why is accurate building data important?
For design, refurbishment and fit-out projects, getting accurate building data will influence every design decision that comes after. A few incorrect measurements, and this can quickly cause problems throughout the whole project.
After all, designers need the information in order to produce layouts, plan structural changes and assess how much space they have to play with, to make sure any new elements can fit right in. Even seemingly small mistakes can have an impact, especially if you are opting for bespoke joinery, structural alterations or electrical installations - reliable data lets you move forward with more confidence, as you know the exact dimensions, levels and spatial relationships in the property.
It also means you’re on the same page as any architects, engineers or contractors you might be working alongside, as you’ll all be working from the same set of drawings.
How do measured surveys help designers?
Getting a measured survey carried out means that designers won’t have to rely on potentially outdated, inaccurate drawings or incomplete records. Working from these means mistakes are far more likely to happen, so it’s important to have the right data from the beginning.
Even if you have access to existing building drawings, they are often not the most recent version, and there could well have been alterations and changes made to the space since they were created.
Essentially, a measured survey takes the guesswork out of the design process, as you’re working with verified dimensions. There’s nothing worse than starting a project and finding out mid way through that your data was wrong, so this helps to prevent that risk. Plus, it stops multiple site visits being carried out to confirm dimensions, so there’s fewer interruptions - get a one-off measured survey and you can move forward with confidence.
Just like with design projects, refurbishment and fit-out calls for accurate measurements, as the original construction drawings might be drastically different from the current form of the building. Getting the latest data ensures that new installations will be successfully integrated into the existing building structure, and will reduce disruption during the construction process by making sure potential issues are spotted earlier on.
Benefits of measured surveys
Naturally, one of the major benefits of measured surveys is that it can avoid expensive mistakes during the design and construction process. Getting the wrong dimensions might mean you end up having to redesign plans, delay the project, waste materials and incur extra labour costs. Knowing the space constraints means that design issues can be resolved during planning, when it’s easier and less expensive to solve. For contractors, discovering discrepancies during fit-out or construction can lead to contractual disputes and the need to request additional costs. Having accurate measurements significantly reduces these risks.
Another benefit of a measured survey is that it allows you to plan your project more efficiently. If everyone is working from the same accurate information, then everyone involved in the project can co-ordinate their designs more effectively, which reduces the chances of conflicts. If you’re on a deadline, solid building data can reduce unexpected design revisions and keep construction activities on schedule. Overall, it means there is better co-ordination and construction efficiency for everyone, and a smoother delivery process.
Compared to traditional 2D drawings, modern measured surveys offer not only more accurate data, but come with digital deliverables that are needed for design software. It can be supplied in CAD formats so there’s no need for manual redrawing, whilst 3D survey outputs are ideal for teams who need to visualise buildings and identify spatial constraints more accurately.
Measured surveys: the main takeaway
Although a measured survey is an upfront expense, it’s a small investment compared to how much it might cost to fix design errors, delays and remedial works. Having accurate data gives the peace of mind that decisions are being made based on the latest verified information, which can be used as a foundation for design and construction, allowing teams to make better decisions.
As an RICS-regulated firm, Anderton Gables’ building surveyors are here to offer no-nonsense advice and support, so before you make your next property decision, talk to our team.
