Updated June 2026 — prices reflect 2026 market conditions
What Is a Point Cloud Survey?
A point cloud survey uses LiDAR/3D laser scanning to capture millions of precise measurement points to create a millimetre-accurate digital record of a building or site. Multiple scanner positions are stitched and registered into one unified point cloud.
| Aspect | Detail | | --- | --- | | Technology | LiDAR/3D laser scanning (FARO, Leica, Trimble) sweeps 360°×300° | | Output | Millions of 3D points (x,y,z coordinates) with colour/intensity data | | Accuracy | Millimetre-level precision |
Typical Costs (Brent/London 2025)
| Project Size | Price Range (ex VAT) | | --- | --- | | Small projects | £250–£350+ | | Standard London residential/commercial | £495–£1,000+ | | Average UK range | £500–£5,000+ | | Day rate (surveyor) | From £1,000/day |
Cost factors: Property size (GIA), number of floors, point density, colour vs. greyscale (RGB adds ~40%), building complexity, and required deliverables.
LOD (Level of Detail) Options
| LOD | Description | | --- | --- | | LOD 100 | Conceptual massing | | LOD 200 | Approximate geometry (design development) | | LOD 300 | Accurate geometry (coordination/construction) | | LOD 400 | Fabrication-ready | | LOD 500 | As-built for facility management |
Common Deliverables
| Deliverable | Formats | | --- | --- | | Registered point cloud | .e57, .rcp/.rcs, .las | | 2D CAD drawings | DWG, PDF — floor plans, sections, elevations | | 3D BIM models | Revit (.rvt), IFC — LOD 100 to LOD 500 | | As-built documentation | COBie files for facility management |
Typical turnaround: 3–5 working days after site visit.
Brent Coverage
We provide point cloud surveys throughout the London Borough of Brent including:
- Willesden, Harlesden, Kensal Green, Kilburn
- Neasden, Cricklewood, Queen's Park, Brondesbury
- Dollis Hill, Stonebridge, and all surrounding NW London areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a point cloud and a BIM model?
A point cloud is raw 3D 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 point cloud scanning?
Modern terrestrial LiDAR scanners achieve ±1–2mm accuracy. 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 .PTS for point cloud data. BIM models are delivered in .RVT (Revit) and .IFC formats. 2D drawings in DWG and PDF.