Point Cloud Survey

At Anderton Gables, we are providing groundbreaking surveying services through the newest technologies to aid in all types of property and construction developments. Among the most accurate and efficient techniques that we provide is the point cloud survey, a laser scanning survey method that enables us to collect extremely accurate data.

This groundbreaking solution delivers high-definition, three-dimensional information that facilitates accurate planning, design, and analysis. Be it detailed redevelopment, measured building survey, or planned facilities management, point cloud data gives you a trusted digital twin of your built asset, generated from millions of data points.

Craig Greaves
Associate Director

Adam Wenmouth
Associate Director

What Is a Point Cloud Survey?

A point cloud survey is where 3D laser scanning technology is utilised to capture millions of points of spatial data. Each point represents a measurement of a precise location in space, and together they are all referred to as a point cloud. Utilising a point cloud provides an extremely accurate and detailed digital replica of a physical structure or space.

The model created can be employed to produce 2D drawings, 3D visualisations or integrated Building Information Modelling (BIM) outputs. It provides an authoritative and measurable visual record that truly represents current conditions. It is thus suitable for application in architectural design, structural analysis, restoration, and heritage conservation where accuracy is of the utmost significance. Laser scanning entails using light detection to record spatial information with exceptional detail.

How Point Cloud Surveys Are Carried Out

Our engineers use laser scanning or LiDAR equipment that emits rapid pulses of light to carry out a point cloud survey. The laser beam pulses bounce off surfaces and return to the scanner, where the scanner calculates the distance to each point by measuring how long it took for the light to return. The measurements are then used to build precise coordinates in three-dimensional space using advanced technology.

Our surveyors systematically scan the area, placing the scanner at multiple locations to capture the entire environment. After scanning, information from all of the locations is merged to create a complete and georeferenced point cloud. This raw scan data is processed through specialist software that cleans and optimises the data for export in the necessary format, ensuring complete coverage of the appropriate scan area.

According to your requirement, we can deliver 2D drawings, cross-sections, elevations, 3D models and BIM files as output. Our outputs are very precise and ready to assist in different design, planning and construction projects.

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When Are Point Cloud Surveys Required?

Point cloud surveys are essential in all scenarios where detail and accuracy must be paramount. They are used regularly in major refurbishments, redevelopment projects and for the recording of existing buildings' as-built records. For heritage or conservation works, where buildings are complex and sensitive, the ability of laser scanning to be non-invasive provides the ideal solution to obtain detailed complexity without risk of damage using safe surveying methods.

They are also handy in the case of large or hard-to-reach places, factories, or buildings with complicated geometry. For architects and engineers, the information enables precise measurement without multiple site visits. In construction, a point cloud survey enables clash detection, logistics planning and quality control by using laser scanning work tailored to specific needs.

For asset owners and facility managers, the data aids in long-term management through the provision of a permanent digital record of the structure and configuration of a building, referenced through geocordinate systems for consistent accuracy.

Laser Scanning Point Cloud Survey Cost

A point cloud survey's cost can depend on a huge number of variables. These variables can be from the size and complexity of the site, the amount of detail you need, to the extent of outputs you need. For example, a small house may only require a brief scanning visit and simple plans, but a factory or industrial plant of substantial size may require several scanning days and detailed 3D modelling using high-end laser scanning equipment.

We tailor each proposal to your requirements. We start with a good understanding of what you must accomplish, then design a competitive and comprehensive quote. We strive always to deliver value by supplying data that reduces risk, prevents costly errors and maximises project performance. The initial cost of a point cloud survey is often repaid through better accuracy and fewer delays.


Versatile Deliverables

Point cloud data is extremely flexible and can be developed into a broad variety of deliverables to meet your exact project requirements. These comprise conventional 2D floor plans and elevations and 3D CAD models, and complete Building Information Modelling (BIM) files.

The data can be output to fit. This versatility means that the survey can fulfil several different functions, from early feasibility studies right through to detailed design coordination and longer-term asset management.

Reduced Risk on Site

Safety is among the primary concerns of any location-based activity, and point cloud surveying presents a chance to minimise risk exposure considerably. Since scanning devices can record information from a distance, surveyors are frequently able to conduct the work without having to enter off-limits or dangerous zones.

This is especially critical when dealing with structurally unsound buildings, trafficways or spaces with machinery or environmental threats. Removing the necessity for direct contact enhances health and safety adherence without compromising on detailed data collection using laser scanning methods and scan targets positioned strategically.

Support for Long-Term Asset Management

Apart from construction and design, point cloud surveys offer long-term value by enabling long-term asset management. The information is retrievable and can be stored and referred to for maintenance planning, lifecycle analysis and compliance reporting.

Building owners and facilities managers can use the model as a benchmarking reference, knowing that any work going forward is driven by accurate as-built conditions. Also, the changes that a structure experiences over its lifespan can be recorded and compared with the original survey, enabling the upkeep of an accurate representation of the asset's progress and condition.

Benefits of Point Cloud Surveys

Exceptional Accuracy

One of the single most significant benefits of point cloud surveys is their unmatched accuracy. Using high-resolution laser scanners to capture millions of individual data points, surveyors can create measurements precise to a matter of millimetres.

For design professionals, engineers and builders, this means that choices can be based on reliable information, avoiding the chances of measurement error, design conflict or costly site changes. Precision that is achieved with point cloud surveys serves to create an improved workflow in every phase of a project, from the development of concepts to building and delivery.

Rapid Data Collection

Speed is another primary advantage. The traditional surveying techniques require weeks or even days to collect data on large or complicated sites. Point cloud surveys, in contrast, can collect enormous amounts of spatial data in a limited timeframe.

This efficiency saves site time, minimises disruption to ongoing operations, and accelerates the whole project programme. For properties in continuous occupation, for example, schools, hospitals or offices, this capacity to get the necessary information quickly with little disturbance is priceless. It also enables fast mobilisation and turnaround, assisting in fulfilling tight deadlines and keeping up project momentum.

Digital Accessibility & Reusability

Once captured, point cloud data creates a lasting, easily accessed digital record of a space. Project teams can return to the scan essentially at any time without needing to conduct further site visits. Not only is time and money saved by doing so, but design development can also be more responsive.

If more questions are raised or more measurements are required, they can be obtained from the same dataset. It is especially valuable for multi-phase projects, remote or distributed teams, and asset management over numerous locations.

The data is still accessible throughout and after the project, which enables future changes, extensions or facilities management. The raw data, once collected, becomes a vital long-term asset.

Improved Collaboration

One of the most frequent issues with property and construction work is making sure that everyone is working off the same and correct information. Point cloud surveys address this problem by giving one centralised dataset that can be used across project teams.

Designers, engineers, consultants, and contractors can all work from the same digital model, improving coordination and minimising the risk of design conflicts or misunderstandings. Having a single point of reference promotes more streamlined workflows, improved communication and ultimately a more integrated approach to delivering the project.


Why Anderton Gables?

At Anderton Gables, we merge technical expertise and in-field experience to supply top-notch point cloud surveys that form the cornerstone of your project's success. Our surveyors are equipped with the newest laser scanning technology and software, so every survey is carried out to the highest levels of accuracy and clarity.

We work within sectors that cover commercial, industrial, education, residential and heritage. Our teams are seasoned in the demands of live environments and complicated projects, and we always try to minimise disruption while maximising efficiency.

Our ethos of open communication and attention to detail is reflected in each client being provided with the right data, in the right format, at the right time. From redevelopment on a large scale to needing a precise measure of a current asset, Anderton Gables is the UK's leading point cloud surveying services company.

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Point Cloud Survey FAQS

  • RGB point clouds have colour information, capturing the true appearance of objects' surfaces in the physical world, and are appropriate for viewing and close analysis. Monochrome point clouds have only the spatial information and no colour, and take up less space and are faster to compute. Between the two, it would depend upon the project you're working on and the use you intend to put the data to.

  • Point cloud data can also be delivered in different formats, suited for different software pieces. As some examples, the following formats are standard: ASCII, OBJ, and PTX. Point cloud data can even be utilised to generate BIM/Revit models. The format to be utilised should thus take into consideration the client's preferred software and the project demands.

  • In reality, point cloud data is one of the key constituents of Building Information Modelling (BIM) since it enables the creation of true digital twins of existing buildings. Point cloud data can further integrate with Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) platforms so that immersion is experienced, allowing validation of the design and communication to the stakeholders.

  • There are several factors determining the price of a point cloud survey, including the site's size and complexity, the level of detail, the accessibility, and the deliverables required. For instance, denser scanning with higher detail requires longer to complete and to process and, therefore, is more expensive. Colour addition to the survey can contribute up to 40% to the cost.

  • The accuracy of the point cloud survey depends principally on the scanning instrument's quality and the method used to take the survey. The advanced scanners are precise, and they capture details with an accuracy of several millimetres. The high accuracy makes point cloud survey such a valuable tool across various sectors where accuracy is critical.

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Anderton Gables - Enquire About Our Point Cloud Surveys

Anderton Gables is based in the North West of the UK with offices in Liverpool, Manchester and Preston. 

To arrange a topographic survey for your commercial site, please get in touch with our team. 


Alternatively, give us a call on 0161 696 3119 to find out more.