What is a Construction Survey
It is not uncommon to see abandoned building structures, incomplete or complete, waiting to be demolished for non-compliance or legal disputes. Similarly, you might see road construction work disrupted due to the existence of a waterbody or a temple in its planned course. These examples put the spotlight on the necessity of construction surveys to fulfill the purpose of a project.
What is a construction survey?
One of the most crucial steps in the pre-construction phase is land surveying. Pre-construction surveys are a thorough assessment of a site used to plan and guarantee the successful completion of a construction project.
Determining the current site conditions for upcoming above-ground and underground infrastructure is the usual purpose of site surveying in the construction industry. In addition to providing a variety of other services, land surveyors measure the proposed development site, make an accurate map of the area, stake footing elevations, gather topographic data for mapping existing drainage channels, and measure pipe and manhole sizes.
Land surveying is helpful in establishing the precise position of prospective buildings, pipelines, structures, and other improvements. Among the many advantages of land surveying are:
- Getting aware of the compliances and legal requirements related to the site.
Before starting a project the construction developers must learn if any restrictions/objections are imposed by the court or a government department and need to abide by laws and regulations in force while work is underway.
- Getting aware of the obstacles and constraints on the site.
The ability to identify prospective obstacles and project constraints is a significant advantage of pre-construction planning. By recognizing these obstacles, developers may maximize the advantages of their property while streamlining the construction process and ensuring development proceeds as smoothly as feasible.
- Identifying the spots for grading and levelling
Before construction can commence, every site must be levelled and graded, but it’s not always simple to determine which sites require this step before work gets on. Pre-construction surveys are crucial for analysing a plot’s topography and elevation in order to determine the type of levelling and grading required to finish a project.
- Lowering construction costs.
Mistakes or unplanned events that arise after development has started account for a portion of a building project’s highest expenses. Preventing such problems before work begins is one of the best strategies to minimise these additional expenses and expedite the construction process.
Potential issues are revealed by a land survey, which enables property owners to prepare ahead and alter a project to completely avoid these additional expenses. This lessens the amount of time and money lost on a construction job.
The majority of land surveying services are offered by local businesses or businesses with local offices. The region to be examined, including its history, soil and water conditions, sensitive areas, ecosystems, and protected species, is usually something they are somewhat familiar with beforehand. This shortens the travel time to the chosen location and gives the client important advance knowledge about the area from which plans and decisions may be developed.
Due diligence is another service that land surveying can offer. Old buildings may be inspected by land survey teams for dangerous substances including asbestos, lead, and PCBs, which need to be removed before demolition, new construction, or exploratory work is done. A land surveyor may also find additional problems, such as underground fuel tanks or contaminated groundwater.
- Local Expertise and Due Diligence:
Most land surveying services are offered by local businesses with a good understanding of the region’s characteristics, including its history, soil and water conditions, ecosystems, and protected species. This familiarity shortens travel time and provides clients with valuable advance knowledge.
- Ensuring Safety and Compliance
Apart from providing crucial information for construction planning, construction surveys also contribute to safety and compliance. Survey teams can conduct due diligence by inspecting old buildings for hazardous substances like asbestos, lead, and PCBs. Identifying and addressing these issues before demolition or new construction begins is of utmost importance. Additionally, land surveyors may uncover hidden problems such as underground fuel tanks or contaminated groundwater, which need to be treated appropriately to prevent any harm to workers or the environment.
- Local Expertise for Informed Decision-Making:
Most land surveying services are provided by local businesses with a deep understanding of the region’s characteristics. This includes knowledge of its history, soil and water conditions, ecosystems, and protected species. This familiarity significantly shortens travel time and provides clients with valuable advanced knowledge.
- Cost-effective Planning and Environmental Considerations:
Beyond safety and compliance, construction surveys contribute to cost-effective planning. By identifying potential issues before construction begins, developers can avoid costly mistakes and expedite the construction process. This proactive approach not only minimises financial losses but also promotes more efficient use of resources.
Construction surveys are an essential aspect of any construction project. They provide crucial information about site conditions, help developers comply with legal requirements, identify obstacles and constraints, and contribute to cost reduction. With the expertise of local surveying teams and their ability to conduct due diligence, construction surveys ensure safety and compliance while minimising potential risks. By investing in a comprehensive construction survey, developers can lay the foundation for a successful and well-executed construction project.
FAQ’s
What is the primary purpose of a construction survey?
A construction survey is conducted to assess a site thoroughly before a construction project begins. It involves determining site conditions, identifying obstacles, and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
Why is it important to identify obstacles in pre-construction planning?
Recognising obstacles allows developers to maximise property advantages, streamline the construction process, and ensure a smoother development phase.
How does a pre-construction survey help in grading and levelling?
Pre-construction surveys analyse a plot’s topography and elevation, aiding in determining the grading and levelling required before construction can commence.
How can construction surveys help lower construction costs?
By revealing potential issues beforehand, construction surveys enable property owners to plan ahead, minimising additional expenses and expediting the construction process.
Why is local expertise important in land surveying services?
Local expertise ensures a better understanding of the region’s characteristics, reducing travel time and providing clients with valuable advance knowledge.
What is due diligence in construction surveys?
Due diligence involves inspecting old buildings for hazardous substances, such as asbestos and lead, to be addressed before demolition or new construction.
What types of hazardous substances might land survey teams look for?
Land survey teams may inspect for substances like asbestos, lead, and PCBs, ensuring a safe environment before construction or demolition.
Can construction surveys uncover hidden problems at a site?
Yes, construction surveys may reveal hidden issues such as underground fuel tanks or contaminated groundwater, allowing for proper remediation.