Measured Building Survey Checklist
Before booking a measured building surveyor in the UK, use this checklist to ensure you get the right service and avoid delays.
1. Define Your Purpose and Required Outputs
| Purpose | Typical Deliverables | | --- | --- | | Loft conversion | Attic plan, roof plan, floor levels, ceiling/beam levels | | Extension or design | Full floor plans, elevations, cross-sections | | Listed building | Full elevations with brickwork/stonework detail, roof detail, chimneys | | Commercial fit-out | Floor plans, reflective ceiling plans, services (sockets, switches) |
Key question: Do you need floor plans only, or full elevations and sections?
2. Confirm Survey Features You Need
Basic floor plan (minimum):
- Building footprints, room outlines, columns
- Partitions, door/window positions
- Steps and stairs
Standard and additional features (specify if needed):
- Door/window levels (cill, head heights)
- Beams, ceiling detail, access hatches, skylights
- Fixed cupboards, kitchen units, sanitary fixtures
- Radiator positions, service intakes (gas/water meters)
- RWPs/SVPs (rain/waste pipes)
- Switches, sockets, light fittings
- Floor/ceiling/beam levels
- Joist directions (if possible)
3. Check Access and Site Conditions
- Access to all areas — Surveyors cannot survey locked or dangerous rooms
- Clutter — Excessively cluttered spaces hinder surveying
- Occupancy — Confirm current occupancy and availability of power and lighting
- Access restrictions — Any limitations on entering rooms or exterior access?
- Exterior visibility — Vegetation, scaffolding, or boarded openings may block elevation surveying
- Health and safety — Flag any issues (e.g., derelict buildings)
4. Verify Surveyor Credentials and Method
- RICS membership — Prefer surveyors registered with RICS for quality standards
- Technology used — Laser scanning (point cloud data available) or laser tape measures (±2mm accuracy)
- Output format — CAD drawings, 3D BIM, or point cloud data
- Accuracy — Confirm accuracy requirement (typically ±2mm for laser measures)
5. Get a Clear Quote
- Request a free quotation with agreed survey extent and features
- Ensure the quote specifies what's included and excluded
- Confirm timeline and cost upfront
Quick Summary
Before booking, clarify:
- Your project purpose
- Exact features and drawings needed
- Site access availability
- Surveyor credentials and output format
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I add deliverables after the survey?
Yes, but adding features after the site visit may require a return visit. Specify everything you need upfront to avoid extra costs.
Q: What technology should the surveyor use?
Laser scanning is preferred — it produces point cloud data (±2mm accuracy) and captures more detail than laser tape measures alone.
Q: Do I need RICS membership?
RICS membership is not mandatory but is preferred as it provides quality assurance and professional standards. Always check credentials.