Published: January 2025 | Reading time: 6 minutes
Engineering surveys are specialised surveying services that support construction and infrastructure projects. From major road projects to commercial developments, engineering surveys ensure that structures are built in the right place, at the right level, and to the correct specifications.
What is an Engineering Survey?
An engineering survey is a broad term covering surveying services that support engineering and construction projects. Unlike cadastral surveys which deal with property boundaries, engineering surveys focus on the physical characteristics of a site and the precise positioning of structures.
According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, surveying is the science of determining the positions of points and the distances and angles between them. Engineering surveys apply these principles to construction and infrastructure projects.
Types of Engineering Surveys
Control Surveys
Control surveys establish a network of reference points across a construction site. These points provide the foundation for all other survey work, ensuring everything is positioned correctly relative to the project datum and coordinate system.
Construction Setout
Construction setout (also called setting out or stakeout) transfers the design from plans to the ground. Surveyors mark the exact positions where structures, roads, and services should be built.
As-Built Surveys
As-built surveys document what was actually constructed, compared to the original design. These surveys are often required for project handover and maintenance records.
Monitoring Surveys
Monitoring surveys track movement or deformation of structures over time. This is critical for:
- Building foundations near excavations
- Retaining walls and embankments
- Bridges and other structures
- Land subsidence monitoring
Machine Control Surveys
Modern construction equipment can be guided by GPS and total stations. Surveyors establish the control data that allows excavators, graders, and other machinery to work to precise levels automatically.
When Do You Need an Engineering Survey in Sydney?
Engineering surveys are typically required for:
- Commercial Construction: Office buildings, shopping centres, industrial facilities
- Civil Infrastructure: Roads, bridges, tunnels, stormwater systems
- Multi-Unit Developments: Apartment buildings and townhouse complexes
- Major Renovations: Structural changes to existing buildings
- Utilities: Water, sewer, gas, and electrical infrastructure
Engineering Survey vs Detail Survey
People often confuse engineering surveys with detail surveys:
- A detail survey captures existing site conditions before construction
- An engineering survey supports the construction process itself
A typical project might start with a detail survey for design, then use engineering surveys throughout construction.
The Engineering Survey Process
- Project Understanding: We review project plans and requirements with your team
- Control Establishment: Setting up survey control points across the site
- Setout Work: Marking positions for construction as needed
- Verification: Checking completed work matches design specifications
- Documentation: Providing as-built records and survey reports
Engineering Survey Equipment
Modern engineering surveys use advanced technology:
- GPS/GNSS Receivers: Millimetre-accurate positioning using satellite systems
- Robotic Total Stations: Precise angle and distance measurements
- 3D Laser Scanners: Capturing detailed point clouds of structures
- Drones: Aerial mapping for large sites
Engineering Surveys Across Sydney
Sydney Surveyor Solutions provides engineering survey services across Greater Sydney, from major infrastructure projects to residential developments. Our team works with builders, engineers, and project managers to deliver accurate survey data when and where it's needed.