Updated June 2026 — prices reflect 2026 market conditions
What Is 3D Laser Scanning Survey?
3D laser scanning is a non-contact, non-destructive method that uses a laser scanner to rapidly capture millions of 3D data points (called a point cloud) from a building or site, creating a highly accurate digital record at millimetre-level precision. A terrestrial laser scanner is placed at multiple stations around a building, capturing 360° scans at rates of up to 500,000 points per second. These stations are registered (stitched together) in post-processing software to form a single, unified point cloud referenced to OS grid or local control. The entire building — internally and externally — is captured with ±1–3mm accuracy, far faster than manual survey methods. It reduces survey time by roughly 80% compared to traditional methods.
Deliverables
| Deliverable | Description | | --- | --- | | Raw point cloud | .e57/.rcs/.las/.ptx/.rcp formats — included in base price | | 2D CAD drawings | Floor plans, elevations, sections in .dwg — £300–£1,500 per drawing | | Scan-to-BIM (Revit model) | LOD 300 at ~£7/m²; LOD 400 (with MEP) at ~£10/m² | | NIA/GIA area schedules | Aligned with RICS Property Measurement (2nd ed.) | | TruViews / virtual tours | 360° photographic overlays for stakeholder walkthroughs | | IFC/PDF exports | For coordination and planning submissions |
Typical Costs in Ealing/London (2025)
| Project Type | Cost Range (ex VAT) | | --- | --- | | Small residential (e.g. 3-bed house) | £800–£2,500 | | Medium commercial (e.g. office floor) | £3,000–£10,000 | | Large/complex (hospital, factory) | £10,000–£50,000+ |
On-site capture: £150–£300/hour. Data processing: £50–£120/hour. Additional premiums: night/weekend work (+20%), live environments (+25%), express turnarounds (+30–50%). Historic buildings typically add 15–30%.
Ealing Coverage
We provide 3D laser scanning surveys throughout the London Borough of Ealing including:
- Ealing, Acton, Hanwell, South Acton
- West Ealing, Ealing Broadway, Brentham
- Northfields, Pitshanger, Greenford, Southall
- Park Royal and all surrounding W5/W3/W13 postcode areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a point cloud and a BIM model?
A point cloud is raw3D scan data — millions of measured points. A BIM model is an intelligent, object-based representation where walls, doors, MEP services etc. are categorised and parametric. Point cloud data can be used directly in Navisworks for clash detection, or modelled into a Revit BIM model.
Q: What accuracy can I expect from 3D laser scanning?
Modern terrestrial LiDAR scanners achieve ±1–3mm accuracy at typical scan distances. Accuracy depends on scan density, reflector placement, and scan distance from the instrument.
Q: What file formats do I receive?
Standard formats include .e57, .RCP/.RCS, .LAS, and .PTX for point cloud data. BIM models are delivered in .RVT (Revit) and .IFC formats. 2D drawings in DWG and PDF.