If you own land that you are using for development of any kind, architects, designers or engineers are likely to ask for a comprehensive overview of what the land looks like before agreeing to work on your project. A conventional map is unlikely to capture the land’s intricacies, so it would be beneficial to use a topographic survey, since this captures both the natural and man-made features of the land.
Conducting a topographic survey is a specialist service which requires certain specialist equipment. This guide will explore what a topographic survey consists of, the importance of a survey and the cost of topographic surveys.
What is a topographical survey?
A topographic survey, also known as a ‘topo’ survey, is a fundamental step in your overall construction project and is carried out ahead of any building work begins to provide survey drawings and accurate data of an area of land. The physical features of an area of land are measured and represented on a detailed visual plan which displays the site’s boundaries, plus any fences, kerbs, trees or vegetation. The data collected from a topographic survey will integrate both man-made and natural features of your area of land and surveyors will create a detailed plan for your project area.
There are a variety of topographic surveys that we offer at Lucion, including quarry surveys, volumetric surveys, monitoring surveys and bathymetric surveys. The type of survey you need depends on your project, but our specialist team of surveyors can support you to ensure you select and use the correct survey.
Could you simply opt to forgo a topo survey?
If you decide to forgo a topographic survey ahead of your project, you could be left with a lack of accurate site measurements, meaning that, without detailed information about the terrain you plan to develop on, you might underestimate or overlook critical features of your site. This could lead to mistakes during your project which could ultimately result in unnecessary further expenses. You will likely not make maximum use of the area you are trying to develope.
Deciding against a topographic survey could also lead to several safety hazards for architects, designers or engineers working on your plot of land. Whilst a topographic survey will ensure you have a strong understanding of the land you are working on, it also helps to create a safe working environment.
Some projects may not necessarily warrant a topographic survey, like assembling a shed in your garden. A similar assessment may have been recently conducted and provides all the data and information you need. However, it is always best to consider a topographic survey and acquire expert advice from our team to ensure you are following the right guidelines for your specific project.
How much does a topographic survey usually cost?
The cost of a topographical land survey tends to differ depending on the size and complexity of the project you are working on.
In the UK, land surveying typically costs between £350 and £1200 for one day of work. Land survey costs can fluctuate and are entirely factor dependent relating to your particular project. If an area of land is larger than usual, a topographic survey may take longer and will therefore cost more. The survey area could be uneven with various factors making topographical surveying work more difficult, like uneven terrain or cliffs, which would increase the cost of topographic surveys.
It is possible to produce a satellite image through a tool like Google Earth which would indicate prioritised land for surveying work. You could overestimate the amount of land which actually needs surveying, which would impact the overall cost of your topographic survey.
Ultimately, the cost of the topographic survey process varies on a case-by-case basis, so discussing your project with our land surveyors at Lucion will provide clearer cost estimates for your survey.
What else could you do to prepare the land?
Generally, a flat, open space is easier — and less expensive — to survey than land with large amounts of varied foliage. Therefore, if your own site is more like the latter, you could consider potentially reducing the greenery before organising a topographic survey.
Once you have prepared the land as best as possible and left the survey site visibly open, taking photographs of the area can assist our surveyors in understanding of what they will be working with. This can help us when working out a quote for your survey.
Choosing Lucion for your topographic survey
At Lucion, our surveyors are meticulous when mapping boundaries, features and levels, as well as considering potential constraining factors like adjacent buildings or nearby roads. Our team of expert surveyors use UAV technology for larger sites to ensure accuracy and a cost-effective option, and we use the latest Trimble equipment and receivers for unmatched precision to assist your construction project.
Get in touch with our team today to discuss your project and get a cost estimate for your topographic survey.
