As-Built Survey

The field of surveying is filled with a plethora of technical terms and jargon that can be confusing for those not familiar with the industry. One such term is ‘As-Built Survey’, a crucial component of many construction and engineering projects. This article will delve into the intricacies of As-Built Surveys, providing a comprehensive glossary of terms related to this topic, and explaining their relevance in the context of survey quotes.Survey Quotes – Explaining Common Terms Used In The Industry

Understanding these terms is not only essential for professionals working in the field, but also for clients who need to comprehend the services they are paying for. This glossary aims to demystify these terms, providing clear and detailed explanations that can be understood by both experts and laypeople alike.

What is an As-Built Survey?

An As-Built Survey is a type of survey conducted after the completion of a construction project. Its purpose is to verify that the work has been carried out according to the design plans, and to record any deviations that may have occurred during the construction process.

This type of survey is crucial in ensuring that the constructed building or infrastructure aligns with the original design and meets all regulatory requirements. It provides a final record of the project, which can be used for future reference or in case of any disputes or legal issues.

Components of an As-Built Survey

An As-Built Survey typically includes several key components. These include the location and dimensions of all structures, utilities, and other relevant features on the site. It also includes details of any changes or deviations from the original design plans that occurred during construction.

These details are usually recorded using a combination of traditional surveying methods and modern technology, such as GPS and laser scanning. The data collected is then compiled into a comprehensive report, which includes detailed drawings and documentation of the completed project.

Importance of an As-Built Survey

An As-Built Survey is not just a formality, but a critical part of the construction process. It provides a final check to ensure that the project has been completed according to the design plans and regulatory requirements. It also serves as a record of the project, which can be invaluable in case of any future disputes or legal issues.

Furthermore, an As-Built Survey can also be used for future planning and development. For instance, if a building needs to be renovated or expanded in the future, the As-Built Survey can provide crucial information about the existing structure and site conditions.

Common Terms Used in As-Built Surveys

There are several terms that are commonly used in the context of As-Built Surveys. Understanding these terms is essential for anyone involved in a construction project, whether they are a professional surveyor, a contractor, or a client.

Some of these terms relate to the methods and equipment used in surveying, while others relate to the various components and aspects of the survey itself. The following sections will provide a detailed explanation of these terms.

Topographic Survey

A Topographic Survey is a type of survey that maps the physical features of a site, including its elevation and contours. This type of survey is often conducted before a construction project begins, to provide a detailed picture of the existing site conditions.

Topographic Surveys are crucial in planning and designing a construction project, as they provide essential information about the site’s terrain, drainage, vegetation, and other physical features. They are also used in the preparation of As-Built Surveys, to compare the site conditions before and after construction.

Boundary Survey

A Boundary Survey is a type of survey that determines the legal boundaries of a property. This type of survey is often required before a construction project can begin, to ensure that the project does not encroach on neighboring properties or violate any zoning regulations.

Boundary Surveys are also important in the context of As-Built Surveys, as they provide a reference point for the location of the constructed structures. Any deviations from the property boundaries as determined by the Boundary Survey would be recorded in the As-Built Survey.

Understanding Survey Quotes

When commissioning an As-Built Survey, clients are usually provided with a quote that outlines the costs associated with the survey. Understanding the components of this quote is crucial in ensuring that the client is getting a fair deal and that there are no hidden costs.

The following sections will explain some of the common terms used in survey quotes, and how they relate to the As-Built Survey process.

Field Work

Field Work refers to the actual process of conducting the survey on the construction site. This includes the use of various surveying equipment and techniques to measure and record the location and dimensions of the constructed structures, as well as any deviations from the design plans.

The cost of Field Work is usually the largest component of a survey quote, as it involves the most time and resources. The exact cost can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, the methods used, and the level of detail required in the survey.

Office Work

Office Work refers to the process of compiling and analyzing the data collected during the Field Work. This includes the preparation of detailed drawings and documentation, as well as the analysis of any deviations from the design plans.

The cost of Office Work is usually included in the survey quote, although it may be listed separately from the Field Work. The cost can vary depending on the complexity of the data analysis and the level of detail required in the drawings and documentation.

Conclusion

Understanding the terms used in As-Built Surveys and survey quotes is crucial for anyone involved in a construction project. This glossary has provided a comprehensive explanation of these terms, helping to demystify the process of As-Built Surveys and providing a valuable resource for both professionals and clients.

By understanding these terms, clients can ensure that they are getting a fair deal when commissioning an As-Built Survey, and professionals can communicate more effectively with their clients and colleagues. This not only helps to ensure the success of the project, but also contributes to the overall professionalism and integrity of the surveying industry.