What Is Scan to BIM?
Scan to BIM converts 3D laser scan data into an intelligent, structured Revit model — capturing entire existing conditions with millimetre accuracy. Elements are modelled by discipline (architectural, structural, MEP) with Revit families and classifications, ISO 19650-compliant for UK delivery.
How It Works
- Capture — Terrestrial laser scanners, mobile LiDAR, or drone capture a point cloud on-site (typically 1–3 days)
- Registration — Point clouds merged, cleaned, quality-checked using ReCap or Cyclone
- Modelling — Elements modelled in Revit to agreed LOD by discipline
- QA/Validate — Model checked against point cloud; deviation reports highlight anything outside tolerance
Key Benefits
- Accurate existing conditions — eliminates reliance on outdated or missing drawings
- Clash detection — identifies conflicts before construction, potentially saving £15,000+ per clash found
- Fewer RFIs and less rework — design teams work from verified data
- Supports refurbishment, heritage, MEP coordination, and FM — one scan serves multiple project stages
- ISO 19650-compliant delivery — models issued to UK BIM standards
LOD Levels
| LOD | What's Modelled | Best For | Accuracy | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | LOD 200 | Approximate geometry | Spatial planning | ±500mm | | LOD 300 | Accurate dimensions and positions | Construction docs, refurbishment | ±100mm | | LOD 350 | LOD 300 + interfaces, connections | Plant rooms, tight zones | ~±50mm | | LOD 400 | Fabrication-level detail | Manufacture, specialist installation | ±10mm | | LOD 500 | As-built verified conditions | FM, digital twin | ±5mm or better |
Typical Costs (London 2025)
| Project Type | Cost (ex VAT) | | --- | --- | | Small residential (3-bed) | £800–£2,500 | | Single commercial floor | £3,000–£10,000 | | Large commercial/hospital | £10,000–£50,000+ | | LOD 300 architectural modelling | ~£7/m² | | LOD 400 full MEP modelling | ~£10/m² | | Scanning technician day rate | £1,000–£1,500/day (London) |
London adds 15–30% premium due to access complexity and live-environment surcharges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What LOD do I need for a London refurbishment?
LOD 200–300 is typical for most London refurbishments. Specify LOD 350–400 for MEP-heavy or plant room projects.
Q: How long does scan-to-BIM take?
Scanning: 1–3 days on-site. Modelling and QA: 10–15 working days for standard multi-discipline models.
Q: What does scan-to-BIM cost in London?
LOD 300: ~£7/m² architectural. LOD 400: ~£10/m² full MEP. London day rates: £1,000–£1,500/day for scanning.
Q: Is scan-to-BIM worth the cost?
Studies show integrating scan-to-BIM reduces construction costs by 5–15% and timelines by 10–30% — a single clash found pre-construction saves multiples of the survey cost.