Updated June 2026 — prices reflect 2026 market conditions
What Is 3D Laser Scanning Survey?
3D laser scanning (LiDAR) is a non-contact survey method that captures millions of precise 3D measurements per second to create a point cloud — a detailed digital record of a building or site with ±1–2mm accuracy. The scanner emits laser pulses that measure distance to surfaces, creating a measurable 3D digital twin of the physical space. It is ideal for renovations, heritage preservation, BIM workflows, and clash detection — especially for complex geometry where traditional surveying would miss details.
Costs in Hounslow/London (2025)
| Project Type | Cost Range (ex VAT) | Best For | | --- | --- | --- | | Small residential (3-bed house) | £800–£2,500 | Renovations, extensions | | Point cloud only (small project) | £250–£1,000+ | Basic 3D data | | Medium commercial (office floor) | £3,000–£10,000 | Refurbishments, BIM | | Large/complex (hospital, factory) | £10,000–£50,000+ | Full-site digital twins |
What affects cost: size and complexity; deliverables (BIM models add £7–£10/m²; 2D CAD plans £300–£1,500/drawing); night/weekend work +20%; live environments +25%; express turnarounds +30–50%.
Typical Deliverables
| Deliverable | Format | Use Case | | --- | --- | --- | | Point cloud (raw data) | .E57, .RCS, .LAS, .PTX | Direct use, further processing | | 2D CAD drawings | AutoCAD .DWG, PDF | Floor plans, elevations, sections | | 3D BIM models | Revit .RVT (LOD 300/400) | Coordination, fabrication | | 3D mesh/SketchUp | .SKP, .OBJ | Visualisation, design | | TruViews/virtual tours | 360° overlays | Client presentations |
Hounslow Coverage
We provide 3D laser scanning surveys throughout the London Borough of Hounslow including:
- Hounslow, Brentford, Isleworth, Chiswick
- Feltham, Cranford, Heathrow, Heston
- Whitton, Teddington, and all surrounding TW postcode areas
Typical property types in Hounslow: 1930s semis, Victorian terraces, post-war houses, modern flats. Site visits within a few days; drawings within ~1 week for standard projects.
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 ±1–2mm 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.