Measured building survey
A measured building survey supplies dimensional information for the existing building. RICS's measured-survey standard covers accuracy, control, coordinate systems and deliverables, as well as the distinction between building, topographical and utility surveys. Agree the required output and accuracy with the designer before commissioning. [1]
Ask which floors, elevations, roof features and adjacent information are needed for this proposal. Record inaccessible areas and limitations so the design team knows where further checking may be necessary. Do not treat a drawing showing geometry as a report on every hidden construction detail.
Topographical survey
A topographical survey provides site information needed to understand levels and the surrounding layout. Epping Forest's 2026 validation list identifies topographical information for sloping sites, illustrating why the ground and neighbouring context can matter as much as room dimensions. [4] [1]
Agree the site extent and relevant features with the designer, and require compatible reference levels across the project drawings. These are useful brief decisions rather than a requirement to commission the same survey for every small alteration.
Drainage and CCTV survey
Thames Water advises that a builder or drainage specialist can survey the location and size of sewers and drains. Its mapping information is not a substitute for resolving what is actually present where the proposal depends on that information. [2] [5]
CCTV inspection can provide evidence of the sewer's condition. Thames Water expressly requires before-and-after CCTV surveys for the minor sewer-diversion route described in its guidance; that should not be turned into a claim that every householder project needs the same survey. [2]
Ask the drainage specialist to define the inspection scope and provide usable information for the designer. Where a build-over application is required, Thames Water's checklist calls for existing and proposed drainage plans and sections relating the sewer to the foundations. [6]
Asbestos survey
HSE distinguishes a management survey from a refurbishment or demolition survey. The latter is intended to identify asbestos in areas affected by more intrusive work and can require destructive inspection. A routine management survey should not be assumed sufficient for the proposed refurbishment. [3]
Use competent asbestos professionals and give them the actual scope of work. HSE's worker guidance also addresses the need to identify asbestos before work that could disturb it. Do not undertake exploratory disturbance yourself merely to complete a survey brief. [7]
Coordinate the results before design is fixed
Give the reports to the relevant designers and identify which findings change the proposal or require more investigation. Keep scope limitations visible rather than turning incomplete access into an assumption that nothing is present.
HSE consulted on asbestos regulatory and guidance proposals, with consultation closing on 9 January 2026. Check the final outcome and implementing provisions before treating a proposed change as a current requirement. [8]