What Is a Measured Building Survey? Complete UK Guide
A measured building survey captures the exact dimensions and features of an existing building — producing accurate floor plans, elevations, sections, and levels for design, planning, and construction.
What a Measured Building Survey Covers
| Element | Description | | --- | --- | | Floor plans | All floors, all rooms with dimensions | | External elevations | All four sides with materials and heights | | Cross-sections | Internal structure, ceiling heights, beam levels | | Floor levels | ODN datum heights for all floors | | Fixed features | Sanitaryware, kitchen units, radiators, switches |
Why Commission a Measured Building Survey
| Reason | When Needed | | --- | --- | | Extension design | Before architect starts drawings | | Planning application | Building regulations approval | | Building control | Structural works require measured data | | BIM / Revit | LOD requirements for coordination | | Estate agent details | Accurate room dimensions for sales | | Lease plans | NIA/GIA measurements | | Party wall | Schedule of condition |
Measured Building Survey vs Other Surveys
| Survey | What It Covers | Use Case | | --- | --- | --- | | Measured building | Full building (floors, elevations, sections, levels) | Extension design, planning | | Topographical | Land features (boundary, levels, trees, services) | Planning, drainage | | Measured building + topo | Both building and land | New build on brownfield |
2025 Measured Building Survey Costs (ex VAT)
| Property Type | Cost | | --- | --- | | Flat | £350–£700 | | 3-bed house | £600–£1,200 | | Large house | £1,000–£2,000+ | | Commercial | £1,500–£5,000+ |
Deliverables
| Format | Contents | | --- | --- | | PDF | Floor plans, elevations, sections | | DWG | AutoCAD for design | | Point cloud | Raw 3D data (if laser scanned) | | Levels data | CSV/spreadsheet |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a measured building survey and a building survey?
A building survey (RICS Home Survey) assesses condition. A measured building survey captures dimensions for design.
Q: How accurate is a measured building survey?
±5mm for construction-ready surveys. Confirm accuracy standard with your surveyor.
Q: How long does a measured building survey take?
Site visit: 1–8 hours depending on property size. Drawing delivery: 3–7 working days.
Q: What scale are the drawings?
Typically 1:50 or 1:100. Specify your required scale when commissioning.