Whether you're planning a new home, extension, or renovation in Sydney, there's a good chance you'll need a detail survey. But what exactly is it, and why do councils and architects require one?
What a Detail Survey Includes
A detail survey captures and maps:
Ground Levels and Contours
- Spot heights across the property at regular intervals
- Contour lines showing the slope and fall of the land
- Floor levels of existing buildings
- Heights of retaining walls, fences, and structures
Built Features
- Existing buildings (footprint, floor levels, roof heights)
- Fences, gates, and retaining walls
- Driveways, paths, and paved areas
- Pools, sheds, and outbuildings
Natural Features
- Trees (location, trunk diameter, canopy spread)
- Garden beds and landscaping
- Watercourses and drainage lines
Services and Infrastructure
- Stormwater pits and pipes
- Sewer inspection openings
- Water meters and stopcocks
- Power poles and electrical pits
- Gas meters
- Telecommunications pits
When Do You Need a Detail Survey?
A detail survey is typically required when:
- Building a new home: Architects need accurate site data to design
- Lodging a DA: Most Sydney councils require detail surveys for new buildings
- Planning an extension: To understand how it relates to existing structures
- Assessing drainage: Contours show where water flows
- Tree protection: Councils require tree locations for assessment
- Preparing for subdivision: To understand the site before design
Detail Survey vs Boundary Survey
These are different surveys that serve different purposes:
| Detail Survey | Boundary Survey |
|---|---|
| Maps features on the property | Defines legal boundaries |
| Used for design and planning | Used for legal/ownership purposes |
| Shows contours and levels | Shows boundary dimensions |
| $1,500 - $4,000 | $800 - $3,500 |
Many projects need both surveys. For DA submissions, you often need boundary information AND site features. We can combine these into a single survey to save time and money.
How Much Does a Detail Survey Cost?
Detail survey costs in Sydney depend on property size and complexity:
- Small residential block (under 600sqm): $1,500 - $2,000
- Standard residential block (600-1000sqm): $2,000 - $3,000
- Large residential block (over 1000sqm): $3,000 - $4,000+
- Combined detail + boundary survey: Add $500 - $1,000
See our pricing page for current rates.
How Long Does a Detail Survey Take?
- Site work: 1-2 days depending on property size
- Plan preparation: 3-7 business days
- Total turnaround: 5-10 business days
Rush services are available if you have urgent deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a detail survey?
A detail survey (also called a topographic survey or feature survey) maps all physical features on a property including ground levels, contours, buildings, trees, fences, driveways, and underground services. It creates a scaled plan used for design and planning purposes.
How much does a detail survey cost in Sydney?
A detail survey in Sydney typically costs $1,500 to $4,000 for a standard residential property. A basic detail survey for a 600sqm block starts around $1,500.
When do I need a detail survey?
You need a detail survey when designing a new building or extension, lodging a DA with council, planning earthworks or landscaping, assessing drainage issues, or preparing for subdivision.
What's the difference between a detail survey and boundary survey?
A boundary survey defines your legal property boundaries. A detail survey maps features within those boundaries (contours, buildings, trees, etc.) but may not include a full boundary re-establishment. Many projects require both.
Get a Detail Survey Quote
Need a detail survey for your Sydney property? Contact us for a quote. We'll discuss your project requirements and provide pricing for the survey work.