Surveying in construction: setting out, checks and as-built survey
An error in the position of the foundations can later cause problems with the building line or with registration. That is why survey checks are carried out during the stages of construction, not only once the building is finished.
The surveyor through the stages of construction
| Stage | Surveyor's job | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Before the design | Cadastral-topographic base map | The design fits the site |
| Start of works | Setting out (staking out) the building and the building line | The building is where the design and the permit say it should be |
| Excavation | Calculating cut and fill volumes | Accurate settlement of accounts with the contractor |
| Foundations and structure | Checking foundations, columns, verticality | Errors are corrected while it is still cheap |
| During and after construction | Monitoring building settlement | Early detection of problems |
| Completion | As-built survey and survey report | Occupancy permit and cadastre registration |
What matters to developers and contractors
- Contract survey monitoring for the whole building — one surveyor handles all measurements.
- Ask for setting-out and inspection records — you will need them for the technical inspection.
- Plan the as-built survey right after completion — it speeds up unit division and the sale of flats.
Unit division after construction