What Are Field Surveys and Why Are They Important?

The Basics of Field Surveys for Construction

Field surveys are an important part of the construction process. They provide critical information that helps engineers, architects, and contractors design and build safe, efficient, and cost-effective projects. Without field surveys, construction projects would be much more difficult and expensive to complete. Field surveys are used to collect data about the property on which a construction project will take place, and or the existing features of a building.

This data includes the property’s boundaries, contours, existing features, and utilities. The surveyor who conducts the field survey uses this data to produce a map of the property. This map is then used by the design team to create the construction drawings. Today we will look at what exactly field surveys are, and why they are important. 

Types of Field Surveys 

There are two main types of field surveys: topographic and as-built. Today we will mostly focus on As-Built Field Surveys. These surveys are conducted on existing structures to capture images of entire rooms, ceilings, every fixture and every feature, so that your facility is measured and drawn using the most accurate method.

Topographic surveys are used to gather data about the natural features of a piece of land, such as its elevation, contours, and vegetation. This type of survey is typically used in the early stages of planning a construction project. 

As-built surveys on the other hand, are used to gather data about the existing structures on a piece of land. This type of survey is typically used during the construction phase of a project to verify that the finished product matches the developer’s plans. 

An as-built survey is a field survey that is conducted after the construction of a project is completed. The purpose of an as-built survey is to create an accurate representation of the completed project so that any future changes or additions can be made accordingly. As-built surveys are typically conducted by professional surveying firms who will use the latest technology, such as drones, to create a detailed map of the project. This mapping data is then used to create 2D and 3D models which can be used by architects, engineers, and developers to plan for any future changes or additions. 

How Field Surveys Are Conducted

Field surveys are conducted by licensed surveyors who use a variety of tools to collect data about the property. These tools include GPS receivers, lasers, transit levels, levels, tape measures, drones, and total stations. The surveyor uses this data to produce a map of the property, which is then used by the design team to create the construction drawings. 

Why Are Field Surveys Important?

When it comes to developing a piece of property, it is essential that you have an as-built field survey completed. An as-built field survey is a detailed measurement of all existing features on a piece of property. This includes everything from the location of the property boundaries to the placement of utility lines and manholes. 

Having an as-built field survey is critical for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it ensures that any improvements that are made to the property are done so in compliance with local zoning regulations. Secondly, it gives developers a clear understanding of what already exists on the property so that they can make informed decisions about what improvements need to be made. Finally, an as-built field survey can help to prevent construction delays and other issues that can arise when development plans do not take into account existing conditions on the ground. 

Why You Need an As-Built Field Survey

As mentioned above, there are several reasons why it is important to have an as-built field survey completed before starting any work on a piece of property. In addition to helping to ensure compliance with local zoning regulations, an as-built field survey can also provide valuable insights that can save developers time and money down the road. 

As-built field survey can save developers time and money is by helping to prevent the need for expensive rework. This is because, armed with detailed information about existing conditions on the ground, developers can avoid making mistakes in their plans that would require them to go back and redo work that has already been completed. In some cases, this can even mean avoiding costly mistakes altogether. 

Avoiding Delays & Staying On Schedule

As-built field surveys can save developers time and money by helping them to avoid construction delays. Without accurate information about existing property conditions, construction crews often run into unanticipated problems that cause delays. By having an as-built field survey completed beforehand, developers can be sure that their construction crews have all of the information they need to avoid such delays and keep their project on schedule. 

An as-built field survey provides developers with valuable insights into existing conditions on a piece of property. This allows them to make informed decisions about their development plans. You can avoid construction delays, expensive rework, and save developers time and money with an as-built field survey.

The Importance of Accuracy 

Accuracy is critical when it comes to as-built field surveys. Even a small error can have a big impact on a construction project. That’s why it’s so important to work with an experienced and reputable surveying firm such as B-CAD . We use the latest technology and equipment to ensure that your field survey is accurate down to the last detail. 

Getting Your Own As-Built Field Surveys  

As-built field surveys are an important part of the construction process. They provide critical information that helps engineers, architects, and contractors design and build safe, efficient, and cost-effective projects. Without field surveys, construction projects would be much more difficult and expensive to complete. If you are planning a construction project, be sure to hire a licensed surveyor to conduct a field survey before work begins. 

B-CAD Field Surveys & Field Verification Specialties Include:

• Point cloud Data From 3D Scanning Technology
• Architectural Floor Plans
• Furniture Layouts
• Reflected Ceiling Plans
• Room Number & Department Names
• HVAC and Plumbing Systems
• Electrical and Communication Systems
• MEP Plant Equipment Sizes and Layouts

As-built field surveys will give you the data you need to ensure that your project is safe and compliant with all applicable regulations. When it comes to field surveys, accuracy is critical. Make sure you work with a reputable surveying firm to get the best results. For more information on how B-CAD can help with your field surveys, call (302) 478-8334 or contact our team today!