These two surveys are very common and form the basis for the planning and execution of most construction or renovation projects. They are quite different but have some similarities. First of all we will clarify what each is:
What is a Measured Survey?
Also known as a measured building survey, this type of survey is primarily focussed on the buildings in a project, getting the internal and external dimensions correct, and locating important aspects and features such as load-bearing walls or beams. If you are making changes to a house or building, then this type of survey is likely to be needed before you begin. Further surveys may be required during and after construction, to record as-built dimensions. The architect will normally brief the surveyor on the level of detail and scope required. Often the whole of an existing property will be surveyed to a certain extent, plus adjoining properties, so realistic visuals of the finished scheme can be produced.
What is a Topo Survey?
This is an abbreviation for a topographical survey, also known as a land survey, and primarily focuses on the plot that is to be developed or altered. It takes dimensions of anything in a given piece of land, both natural landscapes, slopes, trees, ground levels, and man-made objects such as buildings, sheds, walls, manhole covers and powerlines. Although external dimensions of buildings might be taken, it is more to give an accurate representation of the plot of land as a whole, rather than to create working drawings of the buildings themselves – this would be covered by the measured building survey. Topo surveys are very useful for planning permission when developing a site, or for any major landscape works within a site. From these drawings a host of observations can be made by the relevant professionals, such as sightlines, highways interface, and environmental impact.
Is there a difference in Cost or Time?
Both types of survey will vary in cost and time according to the size and detail required in the brief. Some topo surveys are very simple and cheaper than a regular building survey, whereas others are much more complex and take much longer. Generally the skill levels required in both surveys are similar, so the difference will be just down to the scope.
if I need both, can one surveyor do both surveys?
In most cases, yes. To get great surveys, experience is the distinguishing difference, and if you want one surveyor to do both surveys, look for one with plenty of experience in both. Some of the measuring equipment will be the same for both surveys, but each survey type does have specialist equipment specific to that survey, so if a surveyor mostly does one type of survey, they are not so likely to have the specialistic equipment for the other type.
Taking the measurements is one aspect, transferring them to a suitable electronic or paper output is the other, and again this process will differ slightly for each type. If you are having both surveys done at the same time, it is likely they will be processed separately, as generally the different professionals would want the drawings separated for the purpose they have.
How do Drone Surveys compare?
Drone Surveys are growing in popularity and are an extremely useful and efficient way to survey a wide variety of situations. However, the standard drone survey is taking videos and photos, rather than measurements, so in most cases drone surveys are used for inspection and photographic records of buildings, structures and plots of land. It is unlikely that a drone survey can replace the need for a measured or topo survey, but both types may use drones to add photos or footage to their surveys.
Still not sure which survey you need?
Don’t worry about it anymore – simply contact the friendly and experienced team at XP Surveys to discuss your requirements and book your surveys today.
Ben Richards – Founder
XP Surveys
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