Scan-to-BIM Deliverables
| Deliverable | Format | Use | | --- | --- | --- | | Point cloud | E57, PTS | Primary data | | Floor plans | DWG + PDF | Design reference | | Revit model | RVT | BIM coordination |
2025 Scan-to-BIM Costs (ex VAT)
| Property | LOD 200 | LOD 300 | LOD 350 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 2–3 bed | £800–£1,200 | £1,200–£1,800 | £1,800–£2,500 | | 4+ bed | £1,200–£1,800 | £1,800–£2,500 | £2,500–£3,500 |
How to Write a Scan-to-BIM Scope of Work
A scan-to-BIM scope of work defines what will be scanned, what deliverables will be produced, and how the work will be conducted. A clear scope prevents disputes and ensures the surveyor delivers what you need.
This guide helps architects, contractors, and BIM managers write effective scan-to-BIM scopes of work.
Project Overview
Start with the project basics:
- Project name and address
- Client name
- Project description — refurbishment, new build, assessment
- Key dates — scanning date, required delivery date
Scan Scope
Define what will be scanned:
Buildings and areas: List each building, wing, floor, or area to be scanned.
Scope boundaries: Define what is included and excluded. Excluded areas should be clearly noted.
Access provisions: Note any access restrictions or requirements. Out-of-hours scanning may cost more.
Existing conditions: Note any specific existing condition concerns — heritage features, hazardous materials, occupied spaces.
Technical Specifications
Define the technical requirements:
Scanner specification: Define minimum scanner performance — accuracy, range, field of view. You can specify a scanner model or define performance standards.
Point density: Define minimum points per square metre. 25 points per square metre is typical; higher density for detailed work.
Coverage requirements: Define minimum scan positions and overlap. Complete coverage with no hidden areas should be specified.
Accuracy standard: Define target accuracy in millimetres. 10mm is typical for refurbishment; 5mm for heritage.
Coordinate system: Define the coordinate system and datum — Ordnance Survey or site-established.
Deliverables
Define what will be delivered:
Point cloud data: Format — LAS or PTS. Include or exclude should be specified.
BIM model: Software — Revit. Version. LOD for each element type.
Drawings: Format — DWG or PDF. Drawing types — floor plans, elevations, sections. Scales.
Additional deliverables: Any additional output required.
Level of Development (LOD) Specification
Define LOD for each element category:
Structural elements: Walls, floors, columns, beams — target LOD.
Architectural elements: Doors, windows, stairs, fittings — target LOD.
MEP elements: If MEP is included — target LOD.
Site elements: If site is included — target LOD.
LOD 300 is typical for design development. Specify LOD clearly to avoid disputes.
File Format Requirements
Define formats and versions:
BIM software: Revit version. Architecture, structure, or MEP discipline.
CAD files: AutoCAD version.
Point cloud: LAS or PTS format.
Coordinate units: Millimetres or metres.
Quality Requirements
Define quality assurance requirements:
Scan coverage verification: How complete scanning is verified.
Model accuracy verification: How LOD compliance is confirmed.
Revisions: Number of revision rounds included. Additional charges for extra revisions.
Sign-off: How deliverables are approved.
Programme Requirements
Define key dates and milestones:
- Scanning date and duration
- Point cloud delivery date
- BIM model delivery by phase
- Review and approval dates
Align scan-to-BIM programme with overall project programme.
Pricing Structure
Define how the work will be priced:
Fixed-fee: All-inclusive fixed price for specified scope.
Time and materials: Pricing based on time and expenses.
Stage payments: Payment schedule tied to milestones.
Fixed-fee pricing is preferred. It provides budget certainty and avoids disputes.
Scope Exclusions
Define what is not included:
- Modelling of excluded element types
- Additional revisions beyond specified rounds
- Site supervision or attendance
- Works beyond specified scanning area
Clear exclusions prevent scope creep and additional charges.
Acceptance Criteria
Define how deliverables will be assessed:
LOD compliance: How LOD will be verified.
Accuracy verification: How accuracy against point cloud will be checked.
Format compliance: How file format compliance will be confirmed.
Programme compliance: How delivery against milestones will be assessed.
Fixed-Fee Scan-to-BIM from icelabz
icelabz provides fixed-fee scan-to-BIM services based on agreed scopes of work. We help develop scopes of work and confirm specifications before instruction.
Contact icelabz with your project requirements for a fixed-fee quote.
Common Scope Mistakes to Avoid
Vague LOD: Saying "BIM model" without specifying LOD leads to disputes. Be specific about what LOD means for each element type.
Unclear scope boundaries: Not defining what is excluded causes scope creep. Clearly note excluded areas and elements.
No accuracy specification: Not specifying accuracy means you may not get what you need. Define target accuracy in millimetres.
Ignoring hidden areas: Not addressing how hidden areas will be handled means they may not be captured. Specify approach.
No revision limitations: Unlimited revisions drive up cost. Define revision rounds and additional charges.
Programme misalignment: Scan-to-BIM programme not aligned with design programme. Data arrives too late for effective use.
Scope Review and Approval
The scope of work should be reviewed by:
- Client for budget approval
- Architect for technical approval
- Main contractor for programme alignment
- Scan-to-BIM surveyor for deliverability
All parties should approve the scope before instruction. Formal approval protects all parties.
Using the Scope During the Project
Reference the scope throughout the project:
- Verify deliverables against scope requirements
- Track programme against scope milestones
- Manage revision requests within scope
- Resolve disputes by reference to scope
The scope is a contract document. It defines what was agreed and what will be delivered.
Fixed-Fee Scan-to-BIM Packages
icelabz provides fixed-fee scan-to-BIM packages based on agreed scopes of work. All deliverables are defined in the scope. No hidden charges.
Contact icelabz with your project requirements for a fixed-fee quote.