Revit Model from Laser Scan in Ealing, London
Scan to BIM in Ealing converts 3D laser scan point cloud data into accurate Revit models for refurbishment, extension, and facility management projects. The process captures millions of measurement points on site with millimetre precision, then converts them into an intelligent 3D BIM model that architects, structural engineers, and MEP consultants can use for design development, clash detection, and as-built documentation. Typical costs in 2025 range from £450–£4,500+ for scanning plus £4–£45+ per m² for BIM modelling depending on LOD and complexity.
What Is Involved: The Point Cloud to Revit Workflow
| Step | Description | | --- | --- | | 1. Laser scanning survey | Surveyors capture millions of points on site using terrestrial 3D laser scanners — recording the building exactly as it stands with millimetre precision | | 2. Point cloud registration | Data from multiple scan positions is processed, aligned to a consistent grid and datum (OS Datum and Grid), and merged into one cohesive point cloud | | 3. Point cloud cleanup | Noise, artefacts, and unwanted elements are removed — data is refined for modelling | | 4. Revit modelling | Skilled technicians trace over the point cloud to create intelligent 3D BIM elements — walls, floors, columns, beams, MEP — in Revit | | 5. Quality checks | Geometry and levels are reviewed against source data — accuracy verified to RICS standards or agreed specification | | 6. Delivery | Model provided in agreed format (Revit 2025, IFC, CAD, PDF) with supporting drawings if required |
LOD Levels Explained
LOD (Level of Development or Level of Detail) defines how much detail is included in the Revit model. The UK also uses a split definition — LOD (geometry only) plus LOI (Level of Information, data and attributes) — and increasingly LOIN (Level of Information Need) per ISO 19650.
| LOD | What You Get | Typical Use | | --- | --- | --- | | LOD 100 | Massing model — building footprint and volume as a block | Early site planning — rarely used for Scan to BIM | | LOD 200 | Generic walls, floors, ceilings, columns, beams with approximate dimensions | Schematic design, space planning, initial refurbishment concepts | | LOD 300 | Specific sizes, shapes, locations — accurate wall thicknesses, window and door sizes | Most common for renovations — precise as-built model for construction documents | | LOD 350 | LOD 300 plus interface details, connections, MEP fittings, valves, and hangers | Complex retrofits, clash detection, industrial plant modifications | | LOD 400 | Detailed fabrication-level geometry | Manufacturing, detailed MEP coordination |
LOD 300 is the most common level for Ealing refurbishment, planning applications, and contractor tender packages.
Why Choose Scan to BIM in Ealing?
| Benefit | Why It Matters | | --- | --- | | Accurate as-built record | Ealing's Victorian and Edwardian properties often have undocumented alterations — the scan captures the true condition | | Faster design development | Architects can begin design immediately from the accurate as-built model | | Clash detection | MEP systems modelled against structure — conflicts found before construction | | Reduced site re-measures | Full point cloud data — no return visits to check dimensions | | Planning applications | Accurate floor areas and elevations for Ealing Council submissions | | Ealing-specific expertise | Local surveyors understand Ealing's housing stock — Victorian terraces, Edwardian semis, 1930s homes |
Ealing-Specific Considerations
| Factor | Why It Matters | | --- | --- | | Victorian and Edwardian housing stock | Common in Ealing, West Ealing, Acton — often complex room layouts and original features | | 1930s semis and terraces | Typical in Greenford, Perivale, Northolt — simpler geometry but still requires accuracy | | Conservation areas | Parts of Ealing are conservation areas — accurate existing drawings essential for planning | | Period features | Cornicing, fireplaces, original staircases — often modelled at LOD 300+ | | Modern developments | Newer apartment blocks in Ealing Broadway — easier to model but may require MEP coordination | | Commercial properties | Ealing's shopping centres and office buildings — larger scope, more complex MEP |
2025 Costs in Ealing and London
| Phase | Cost Range | Factors | | --- | --- | --- | | On-site scanning | £450–£4,500+ total | Building size, complexity, scan density, accessibility | | LOD 200 modelling | £4–£12 per m² | Simple geometry, approximate dimensions | | LOD 300 modelling | £8–£25 per m² | Accurate geometry, full detail | | LOD 350–400 modelling | £25–£45+ per m² | Complex MEP, fabrication detail | | Typical Ealing house (LOD 300) | £2,500–£5,000 | Scan + full model | | Commercial unit (LOD 300) | £3,000–£15,000+ | Depending on size and complexity | | Deviation report | £300–£800 | Included in most packages |
Cost factors: Building size, complexity, accessibility, required LOD, MEP scope, turnaround time, and whether georeferencing is required.
Deliverables
| Deliverable | Format | Purpose | | --- | --- | --- | | Revit model | .RVT | Primary BIM deliverable — georeferenced | | IFC export | .IFC | Platform-agnostic — works with ArchiCAD, Vectorworks, and other BIM software | | Point cloud | .RCP, .E57 | Permanent digital archive | | 2D drawings | DWG, PDF | Floor plans, sections, elevations for contractors | | Area schedule | Excel, PDF | GIA, NIA per RICS Property Measurement (2nd edition) | | Deviation report | PDF | Confirms model accuracy vs. point cloud | | Clash detection report | NWC/NWF | If MEP coordination is included |
What Can Be Modelled in Revit from Laser Scan?
| Element | LOD 200 | LOD 300 | LOD 400 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Walls | Approximate thickness, approximate position | Exact dimensions, layers, finishes | As LOD 300 plus reveals and tolerances | | Floors | Approximate slab geometry | Exact slab, structure, finishes | Fabricated detail with connections | | Doors and windows | Approximate opening size | Exact frame, sash, glazing, cills | Full ironmongery specification | | Staircases | Approximate treads and risers | Exact geometry, balustrades, treads | Fully detailed balustrade connections | | Structural elements | Approximate beams and columns | Exact sections and connections | Fabricated steelwork | | MEP systems | Rough routing only | Visible services traced | Full system modelled with fittings |
UK Standards for Scan to BIM
| Standard | Purpose | | --- | --- | | BS 1192 | Collaborative production of architectural and engineering drawings | | PAS 1192-2 | Specification for information management for the capital and delivery phase of construction projects | | ISO 19650 | Organisation and digitisation of information about buildings and civil engineering works — replacing PAS 1192 | | RICS Measured Surveys | Measured survey standards for accuracy and methodology | | BS 8532 | Specification for the acquisition and export of as-built geometry data |
Your scanning provider should follow RICS measured survey standards and document the accuracy methodology in their deliverables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the accuracy of a Revit model from laser scan in Ealing?
Laser scanning achieves ±2mm accuracy at typical scan distances. When modelling at LOD 300, the resulting Revit model is accurate to ±10–15mm — well within the tolerances needed for Ealing planning applications and construction work.
Q: How long does a full scan-to-BIM project take in Ealing?
For a typical Ealing house: 2–4 hours on site for scanning, 2–3 weeks for modelling. For a commercial building: 1–3 days on site, 4–8 weeks for modelling depending on complexity.
Q: What LOD do I need for planning applications in Ealing?
For planning applications in Ealing, LOD 200–300 is typically sufficient. LOD 300 is preferred because it provides accurate dimensions for floor area calculations (GIA/NIA) and design drawings. Check with Ealing's planning department for specific requirements on larger projects.
Q: Can MEP systems be modelled from the point cloud?
Yes — MEP systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing) can be modelled from the point cloud if they are visible and accessible during the scan. Hidden services (within walls, under floors, above closed ceilings) cannot be modelled without additional investigation.
Q: What is the difference between IFC and RVT?
.RVT is the native Autodesk Revit file format — it preserves parametric families, parameters, and intelligence. .IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) is an open, platform-agnostic BIM format that can be opened in ArchiCAD, Vectorworks, and other BIM software. For most projects, both formats are delivered.
Q: Can I use the point cloud for future projects?
Yes — the point cloud is a permanent archive of the property at the time of survey. It can be re-measured, re-modelled at a higher LOD, or used for future extensions without returning to site.
Q: Do I need a scan or can my architect measure by hand?
For simple properties, a measured survey may be sufficient. For complex buildings, buildings with development potential, or where MEP coordination is required, Scan to BIM provides significantly more value — complete data coverage, re-usable point cloud, and clash detection before construction begins.