Measured Building, Topographical, Photogrammetry, Drone Survey FAQs
FAQ
Measured Survey Questions
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A measured building survey is a precise, scaled representation of a building's physical features and layout, typically including floor plans, elevations, sections, and area calculations. At Norelo, all surveys are delivered in accordance with the RICS Terms of Contract for Measured Surveys of Land, Buildings and Utilities (3rd Edition) and BS 1192 standards.
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We use Leica RTC360 laser scanners, capable of achieving ±2 mm accuracy at a 10 m range. Survey control is reinforced with total station observations, and all deliverables are subject to strict QA processes, including registration deviation reports and tolerance audits.
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We use a hybrid methodology comprising:
Leica RTC360 laser scanners for high-speed point cloud capture
Total stations for geospatial control and datum referencing
Drones equipped with LiDAR and photogrammetry for roof, façade, and inaccessible area capture
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Yes. In addition to 2D CAD deliverables (DWG, PDF), we offer Revit (.RVT) and IFC outputs, structured in compliance with BS 1192 and ISO 19650. Models are developed directly from registered point cloud data for architectural accuracy.
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Yes, we offer In Terms of Zone A (ITZA) area calculations, essential for retail valuation and lease agreements. Calculations are conducted using RICS methodology, factoring frontage, depth, and zoning, derived from high-resolution scan data.
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Absolutely. Our scan-based methodology is ideal for historic, irregular, or ornate structures. We maintain high accuracy while preserving architectural integrity and material context, and we can tailor deliverables for conservation architects or planning applications.
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We provide all deliverables digitally via secure client portal or cloud sharing. Formats include:
2D CAD (DWG, PDF)
3D Revit (RVT), IFC
Point clouds (E57, RCP, LAS)
QA reports and metadata logs
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A standard measured survey includes:
Floor plans
External elevations
Cross sections
Roof plans
Area and ITZA calculations
Tolerance and plumb/level reports
We can customise the scope to suit your brief or tender.
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Turnaround depends on building size and complexity, but most projects are delivered within 5 to 10 working days from site access. Larger or multi-building sites may require phased delivery.
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Yes. Every project is delivered in line with:
RICS Code of Measuring Practice (6th Edition)
RICS Terms & Conditions for Measured Surveys (3rd Edition)
BS 1192 Drawing and Data Standards
We are committed to precision, accountability, and professional compliance.
Drone Survey Questions
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A drone survey involves using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) equipped with high-resolution cameras and advanced sensors to capture data from above. These drones fly over the site, collecting imagery and measurements that are then processed into detailed 2D maps, 3D models, and reports.
At Norelo, the process is handled by experienced, CAA-approved pilots who combine technical expertise with top-tier equipment to ensure precision and safety every time. -
Drone surveys are remarkably accurate and often rival or exceed traditional ground-based methods, especially for large or complex sites. With tools like RTK GPS, LiDAR, and photogrammetry, drones can capture data to centimeter-level accuracy.
Norelo’s surveys are backed by rigorous QA processes, industry-grade equipment, and experienced surveyors, delivering exceptional accuracy without the time or access constraints of conventional methods. -
A wide range of projects benefit, including construction monitoring, land development, infrastructure inspection, environmental studies, heritage conservation, and energy audits.
Norelo’s versatility allows us to tailor each survey to the client's requirements, whether you need condition inspection of a roof or a full topographical survey for a new housing estate. -
Costs vary depending on the site size, location, data requirements, and complexity of deliverables. However, drone surveys tend to be significantly more cost-effective than traditional methods, especially when factoring in access, time, and safety.
Norelo offers transparent, bespoke pricing, ensuring excellent value by aligning their services precisely with project needs. A typical roof survey would cost in the region of £375+VAT -
Faster data collection
Reduced health & safety risks
Access to hard-to-reach or hazardous areas
High-resolution imagery and detailed 3D modelling
Minimal site disruption
Norelo maximizes these advantages, using the latest drone and data processing technology to deliver high-quality results, often within hours of flying.
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Depending on the sensors used, data can include:
2D Orthomosaic maps
3D point clouds and mesh models
Contour and elevation data
Thermal imaging and heat loss patterns
Volume and area measurements
Norelo’s in-house team ensures this data is processed and delivered in formats that seamlessly integrate with CAD, Revit, GIS, or BIM workflows.
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The flight time itself can range from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the area. Processing and reporting typically take 1–3 days.
Norelo is known for its efficiency, often delivering full results within 24 hours, without compromising on detail or quality. -
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) governs all commercial drone operations. Operators must be certified, follow strict guidelines, and often require permission for flights near sensitive areas or populated spaces.
Norelo holds full CAA approval and comprehensive insurance, and they handle all risk assessments and permissions for complete client peace of mind. -
Architecture & Construction
Civil Engineering
Real Estate & Property Management
Renewable Energy (e.g., solar and wind farms)
Infrastructure & Utilities
Environmental & Forestry
Public Sector and Emergency Services
Norelo’s client base spans them all, proving our flexibility and expertise across a broad spectrum of sectors.
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CAA approval and appropriate insurance
Proven experience in your sector
High-quality equipment
Fast turnaround and strong communication
Solid client reviews and transparent pricing
Norelo checks all these boxes, and goes further, offering consultancy-driven service and technical excellence that stands out in a crowded market.
Topographical Survey Questions
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A topographical survey maps the physical features and levels of a site, showing contours, boundaries, buildings, vegetation, roads, and utilities for planning or design.
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Topographical surveys are essential for architects, engineers, and developers to understand the site layout, elevations, and constraints before construction or design.
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At Norelo, we use a combination of total stations, GNSS (GPS), and drone-based LiDAR/photogrammetry to capture accurate ground and surface data.
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Accuracy typically ranges from ±10 mm to ±50 mm, depending on the method used and the survey brief. We follow best practice tolerances for engineering-grade outputs.
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We supply 2D CAD drawings, 3D digital terrain models (DTMs), contour lines, spot levels, and annotated site features in formats such as DWG, PDF, or IFC.
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This depends on site size and complexity. Small urban plots can be completed in 1 day; large or complex terrain may require multiple days and phased deliverables.
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Yes. All our outputs are planning-grade and suitable for submission to local authorities, architects, and design consultants.
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Yes, we can coordinate with utility mapping surveys (PAS 128) and integrate utility trace data with your topo base plan.
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Absolutely. We regularly survey undeveloped rural plots and complex built environments, including urban regeneration areas.
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Yes. We can overlay title boundaries or OS data and assess alignment between legal boundary information and physical site conditions.
LiDAR Survey Questions
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LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a laser-based survey method that produces a 3D point cloud by measuring the distance between the sensor and surface objects.
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LiDAR surveys are ideal for terrain modelling, forestry, flood risk assessment, infrastructure corridors, and large-scale mapping.
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Drone-based LiDAR typically delivers accuracy between ±20 mm to ±50 mm, depending on flight altitude, density, and control. Terrestrial LiDAR can achieve sub-10 mm.
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Drone LiDAR captures wide areas quickly from the air, ideal for large or inaccessible sites. Terrestrial LiDAR is ground-based and provides very high-resolution data for structures.
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A LiDAR point cloud is a 3D dataset made up of millions of XYZ coordinates representing ground and surface features. It can be classified, coloured, or meshed.
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Yes. We always establish ground control points (GCPs) or use GNSS to geo-reference and validate LiDAR data accuracy.
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Typical outputs include LAS, LAZ, E57, RCP, DXF, DWG, and raster files like GeoTIFF for elevation models. We also deliver 3D Revit or IFC models upon request.
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Yes. One of the key benefits of LiDAR is its ability to capture ground data beneath vegetation using multiple laser returns.
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Yes. LiDAR is excellent for mapping building mass, kerb lines, road surfaces, and complex geometry in cities or industrial estates.
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Delivery time varies by project scale, but typical turnaround is 3–10 working days depending on processing and model requirements.
Photogrammetry Survey Questions
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Photogrammetry is the process of extracting 3D spatial data from overlapping photographs taken from drones or other cameras, resulting in models, maps, and measurements.
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It provides fast, cost-effective 3D models and orthophotos with colour-rich detail, making it ideal for site visualisation, mapping, and inspection.
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With proper ground control and flight planning, horizontal accuracy can reach ±20–30 mm, suitable for planning and design-grade applications.
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Photogrammetry uses visual imagery and requires texture and lighting for best results. LiDAR uses lasers and works better in low light, vegetation, or complex geometry.
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An orthophoto is a geometrically corrected aerial image that can be measured like a map. Orthomosaics stitch many images together into a seamless, scalable plan.
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We provide 3D meshes, point clouds, orthomosaics, contour maps, digital surface models (DSM), and textured models in multiple file formats.
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Yes. It’s commonly used for roof and façade inspections, asset documentation, and defect tracking, especially on commercial and industrial buildings.
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In most cases, no, photogrammetry relies on consistent lighting and overlapping photos, which is harder to achieve indoors. We use laser scanning indoors instead.
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Yes. We operate DJI Enterprise drones with RTK GNSS for georeferencing, increasing the precision and reducing reliance on ground control.
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Surveys can be flown in a few hours and processed within 1–5 days depending on site size and complexity. Fast turnaround is a key benefit of photogrammetry.