Why do you need a topographical survey?
A topographical survey, often referred to as a topo, can be used for many reasons. It enables our clients to understand the boundaries of their land, the different ground levels across the site and the constraints and opportunities within it, as well as the impact of neighbouring structures. This can have a multitude of uses and can provide much needed intelligence in the design and communication stages of a construction project.
Topos for planning and design
Developing a detailed overview of a site enables developers to understand how a piece of land can be used to its maximum advantage. It will show easily developable areas and also identify the areas where construction will be restricted or where obstacles appear such as services that need to be moved. While at a first look, a piece of land might appear to have good potential, the reality is, that the opportunities associated with the land can really only be properly determined once a topo survey has been carried out. In addition, the survey can also be used to assist 3D modelling for things like drainage and highway infrastructure.
A topo survey will also help identify what groundwork is required, and the likely costs associated with undertaking work, such as cut and fill and levelling, to prepare the ground for construction. It can also demonstrate how the space can be used in relation to what already exists, looking at building placements, public realm design and the existing or required infrastructure.
Topos: creating clear project-wide communication
Once complete, the survey is a useful tool in helping with the communication of plans, designs, potential obstacles and project phasing. It enables all the experts to work from a single, real life, up-to-date plan, which also takes ground levels into consideration for building placement and creating groundworks plans. This is particularly helpful for briefing contractors working on a project.
Rising tides: how topos can help in flood risk assessments
With the unpredictable weather of recent years, leading to an increased risk of flooding, topographical surveys are also useful in flood risk assessments. An essential part of an onsite flood risk assessment, the survey provides an understanding of the topography of the site compared to predicted flood levels from nearby watercourses. This enables accurate depths of flood water to be determined internally and externally to confirm whether an area is at risk of flooding, thereby helping developers gauge the likely risks associated and mitigation required, with a location choice.
If you would like to know more about how we can help you to carry out a topographical survey, then get in touch today.
