Updated June 2026 — prices reflect 2026 market conditions
Measured Survey for Architects: What You Need
A measured survey provides accurate, to-scale drawings of existing conditions that form the foundation for all design work. Architects need precise data to produce quality designs and avoid costly mistakes.
Essential Data for Architects
| Element | What's Included | | --- | --- | | Floor plans | All visible walls, doors, windows, room sizes, staircases | | Vertical dimensions | Ceiling and roof heights, window sill and head heights, spot levels | | External elevations | Building heights, rooflines, window positions, façade details | | Sections | Floor-to-floor heights, floor thickness, beam positions | | Roof details | Eaves height, ridge height, roof pitch | | Site features | Boundaries, outbuildings, ground levels, neighbour relationships |
Standard Deliverables for Architects
| Format | Typical Output | Best For | | --- | --- | --- | | 2D CAD | DWG + PDF at 1:50 or 1:100 | Planning applications, building control | | 3D BIM | Revit RVT or IFC | Complex refurbishments, design coordination | | Point cloud | Laser scan data + viewer | Verification, heritage projects |
RICS Standards
RICS Measured Surveys of Land, Buildings and Utilities, 3rd Edition governs UK measured surveys. Key requirements:
| Aspect | Standard | | --- | --- | | Accuracy bands | Survey detail banding (output-driven, Level of Detail) | | Survey control | Coordinate grid, datum, precision specs | | Deliverables | CAD standards, point cloud formats, GIS data | | Metadata | Scale-independent accuracy for digital environments |
Note: RICS Code of Measuring Practice 6th edition remains current for 2025. 7th edition due 2026.
2025 UK Costs
| Property Type | Cost (ex VAT) | | --- | --- | | Small terraced house | £800–£1,200 | | 3–4 bed semi or detached | £1,200–£2,000 | | Large period property | £2,000–£5,000 | | Small commercial | £1,000–£2,500 | | London premium | +20–40% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What accuracy do I need for planning vs detailed design?
Planning feasibility: Band D (±50mm). Detailed design and structural coordination: Band C (±20mm).
Q: Should I specify 2D CAD or 3D BIM?
2D CAD covers most planning applications. 3D BIM is required for complex refurbishments, heritage work, and design coordination.
Q: What file formats should I receive?
AutoCAD DWG (editable) plus PDF. For BIM projects, Revit RVT or IFC. Always confirm compatibility with your software.