STEP BY STEP SURVEYING A

BUILDING
 From photographs made on a first site visit it is possible to
extrapolate a proportioned plan drawing to which measured data
may be added. It is easier to make the base drawing at a building in
uncomfortable conditions.

Measurementswell-lit desk than on a clipboard in a dimly lit,

which record the distance of each significant point from the fixed
datum, should be made in a clockwise direction and recorded as
‘running’ dimensions, to avoid the aggregation of error that
occurs with multiple small, single measurements.
Running’ dimensions should be written in metres; an accuracy of +/- 5mm/¼in is acceptable. More detailed
dimensions taken from point to point, such as the depth of a doorframe, are recorded in millimetres
between a ‘crossed line’ indicating the points measured.

Heights are also recorded in millimetres, and written in a circle to differentiate them from plan
measurements. A sequence of heights, such as ceiling, window head and windowsill, is recorded within the
same circle but divided byhorizontal lines with the highest at the top.
1
Plan dimensions are usually taken
at a height of 1200mm/47¼in
above the floor. This will cut
through most windows, which are
obviously crucially relevant.
Details or areas of specific
interest are drawn at a larger scale
with dimensions taken point to
point.
2
Separate larger-scale
drawings for crucial areas
should be cross-referenced
on the overall plan
3 Assume that corners will not be right angles.
Diagonal dimensions taken from opposing corners
can be used to confirm the angle of the intersection
of the two walls it connects. Diagonal dimensions
provide the information necessary to establish
angles. Survey notes should be checked before
leaving the site. It is usually possible to extrapolate
internal elevations from the plan and heights. More
complicated elevations or sections should be
measured. If external elevations are needed, it is
more efficient to measure down from the eaves (the
point at which the roof meets the wall) as this will
normally be level, while the ground will not.