Updated June 2026 — prices reflect 2026 market conditions
Point Cloud Survey Deliverables: Formats, LOD Levels and Software
Specifying point cloud deliverables correctly is critical for ensuring the data works with your design software and workflow. Here is what you need to know.
Point Cloud File Formats
| Format | Description | Software Compatibility | | --- | --- | --- | | PTS (ASCII) | Point XYZ + RGB, large files | CloudCompare, ReCap, many CAD tools | | E57 | Compact, structured point cloud | Leica Cyclone, CloudCompare, Revit | | RCP/RCS | AutoCAD/ReCap format | AutoCAD, Recap, Navisworks | | LAS/LAZ | Lidar format, airborne data | GIS software, QGIS, ArcGIS | | XYZ (ASCII) | Simple point list | Any text editor or CAD import |
For UK architectural workflows, E57 and RCP/RCS are the most useful formats.
Point Cloud Processing — LOD Levels
| LOD | Description | CAD/BIM Use | | --- | --- | --- | | LOD 100 | Scan-only deliverable | Visual reference only | | LOD 200 | Basic geometry | Schematic design reference | | LOD 300 | Accurate dimensions | Design development, planning | | LOD 350 | As-built BIM model | Construction documentation | | LOD 400 | Coordinated BIM | FM, facilities management |
Common Deliverable Packages
| Package | Contents | Typical Use | | --- | --- | --- | | Scan only | Point cloud (E57/PTS) | In-house modelling | | Scan + CAD | Point cloud + DWG floor plans | Design reference | | Scan + BIM | Point cloud + Revit model | BIM coordination | | Full survey | Point cloud + CAD + BIM | Major projects |
Software and Version Compatibility
| Software | Version | Point Cloud Support | | --- | --- | --- | | AutoCAD | 2021 or earlier | RCP/RCS direct, E57 via plugin | | Revit | 2021 or earlier | Direct E57 import | | Navisworks | 2022 or earlier | RCS, E57 | | CloudCompare | Any | All formats | | ReCap Pro | Current | All formats, best for Revit |
What to Include in Your Specification
| Element | Recommendation | | --- | --- | | Format | E57 for Revit workflows, RCP for AutoCAD | | Coordinate system | OS National Grid, ODN datum | | LOD level | Specify LOD 200/300/350/400 | | Colour | RGB point cloud preferred | | Density | Min 10mm spacing at 10m | | Registration | Target error <10mm |
2025 Point Cloud Survey Costs (ex VAT)
| Property | Scan Only | Scan + CAD | Scan + BIM | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 2–3 bed | £300–£500 | £600–£1,000 | £900–£1,500 | | 4+ bed | £400–£700 | £800–£1,500 | £1,200–£2,000 | | Commercial | £500–£1,000 | £900–£1,800 | £1,500–£3,000+ |