Topographical Surveys: Everything You Need to Know

Surveys are critical components within many industries, but there are many different types of assessments available, and knowing which type of survey to use is essential if you want to gather the right type of data for your project.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at topographical surveys, including what they are, when they’re used, and why you need them. Read on to learn more about these land assessments and, crucially, to find out whether you need a topographical survey!

What Is a Topographical Survey?

A topographical survey collates data about a specific piece of land, including natural and artificial elements or structures. For example, it should include an accurate representation of ground levels, boundaries, buildings, streams, trees, ground contours, and more.

When Are Topographical Surveys Used?

The data that’s generated via a topographical survey is useful for a number of purposes, but they are predominantly used throughout the design and construction industries.

A building company or property development firm may require a topographical survey to determine the viability of constructing new properties on a specific piece of land, for example. Similarly, an architect or planner may rely on a topographic survey when designing a new building.

In addition to this, topographical surveys are frequently used to determine the impact of modifications to a site, such as the addition of new pipework or the construction of new roads.

Do I Need a Topographical Survey?

One of the most common questions we’re asked is, do I need a topographic survey, and the answer is usually yes!

If you’re going to build on land or modify existing land use, then this survey is an essential element of the project. It will provide critical data that underpins your design and construction and can transform your project, based on the information it offers.

Due to this, a topographical survey should always be conducted before commercial planning, design, or construction gets underway. Indeed, failing to carry out one can have disastrous consequences, such as subsequent flooding, uneven ground levels, or avoidable boundary disputes.

Do I Need a Topographic Survey as a Private Homeowner?

Topographical surveys are usually commissioned by commercial organisations, such as architects, property development companies, and builders. However, there are times when private individuals may need to have such surveys undertaken too.

If you’re purchasing a piece of land with the intent of building a new home, for example, then a topographical survey could certainly be a worthwhile investment. In the same way that a topographic survey underpins a commercial development, it can provide valuable information that will be used to guide the design and build of a new home too.

Similarly, if you want to make significant changes to your existing estate, commissioning a topographic survey can be a savvy way to ensure an optimal outcome and prevent modifications from causing unwanted changes to the land.

How Are Topographical Surveys Carried Out?

A variety of specialist equipment is typically used to undertake a topographical survey, although the exact equipment and methodologies will vary depending on the land that is being assessed.

In most instances, a land surveyor or topographer will use a range of equipment to compile accurate data, including:

• GPS devices
• Total stations
• 3D scanners
• Drones

This ensures detailed information can be gathered across the entire site and enhances the accuracy of your topographical map, thus increasing its validity and value.

What Does a Topographical Survey Show?

A topographical map or survey should contain all manmade or natural elements that are present on the land. Although the exact data contained within a topographical survey can be adjusted depending on the client’s requirements, most topographical maps will include:

• Buildings
• Boundaries
• Ground levels
• Ground contours
• Ground surfaces
• Streams
• Trees and vegetation
• Overhead power lines
• Features and structures adjacent to the site

What Are the Benefits of a Topographical Survey?

If you’re still wondering, do I need a topographical survey, then take a look at some of the benefits these land assessments can offer:

Make Informed Planning Decisions

Whenever you’re preparing to build on land, it’s vital to have access to accurate data so that you can make informed planning decisions. The impact of construction on the land itself, as well as on existing features, such as drainage systems, can greatly affect the viability of a project. Indeed, failing to obtain accurate data before planning can result in costly mistakes and delays, and scrapped projects.

By commissioning a topographical survey, however, you can ensure you have the requisite data to make informed planning decisions and optimise the outcome of your upcoming project.

Reduce Construction Costs

If you proceed with construction without adequate data or planning, you’re highly likely to run into unforeseen problems. Inevitably, this will result in necessary changes being made to your plans and additional works being undertaken, which will substantially increase the costs associated with your project.

Fortunately, a topographical survey allows construction projects to be carefully planned and all necessary works to be incorporated from the outset. As well as improving the management of your budget, this can reduce the overall cost of your project and save you money in the long term.

Get Planning Permission

Obtaining planning permission can be a challenging process, even for established architects, designers, and construction companies. With a topographical survey, however, you can ensure that your proposal contains accurate data and accommodates existing features, thus increasing the likelihood of successfully obtaining planning permission.

Commissioning a Topographical Survey

As you can see, there are many reasons to carry out a topographical survey – and many benefits on offer. At GeoCart, we offer a wide range of construction and engineering assessments, including topographical surveys. With our team of highly trained professionals, you can rely on us to produce detailed, accurate, and precise topographical maps of any land area.

To find out more or to commission a topographical survey now, contact our team on 07397 223 267 or email us at office@www.geocart.co.uk.