As Built Surveys for Successful Projects
What is an as built survey? An as built survey records the measurements of a structure once it is built. These measurements can vary from the original design. You may already know what an as built survey is. Even if you do, you may wonder why you need one. An as built survey is a precise measurement of the inside and outside of your building. Frequently, as built surveyors will use precise lasers to determine the measurements. They use these measurements to create a rendering that shows the exact layout and dimensions of the building. Along with the survey you should be considering your punch list to make sure everything actually gets done.
Many of the agencies involved in developing your chosen site will require an as built survey. This is to prove the location of the building since many government agencies use as built surveys when making underground improvements. These are especially critical for maintenance and subsequent development of the site.
As Built Surveys During a Project
As built surveys are frequently necessary during progressive phases of the construction process. This monitors the correct building of the structure as it occurs. Project managers may use this precise information to extend deadlines or correct violations with remediation procedures. Generally, as built surveys are necessary after construction is complete. You will need this to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy. This validates the completion of all requirements.
Benefits of an As Built Survey
What is an as built survey’s purpose? As built surveys have the capacity to be vitally valuable to owners, operators, and stakeholders in building projects. When you obtain an as built survey after project completion, you may find that it serves many purposes:
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Documents the actual location of underground utilities and assets such as conduits and piping that run beneath floors or behind walls. You will save a lot of time and effort when the surveyor publishes accurate data. Maintenance, repairs, and upgrades to the facility become easier to complete.
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Serves as the foundation of a GIS (geographical information system). This may be used in a system for inventory management, work order issuance, or for transferring data to government agencies. The combination of databases and good digital maps produces value for stakeholders.
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Provides valuable information for future projects or subsequent phases in the current building
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Provides assurance that the appropriate construction standards have been achieved. In addition, an as built survey shows that a completed project meets the original goals.
The as built survey works in conjunction with the contracts to ensure transparency and usefulness for the project stakeholders.
The Future of As Built Surveys
Innovative technology is producing amazing advancements for surveying. Surveyors now use building information modeling (BIM), laser scanning, and mobile computing throughout every phase of a project lifecycle.
Laser scanning has tremendous potential. When performed throughout the project, the surveys may be published as 3D digital as built surveys. Each stakeholder will have access to robust insights into project optimization. Contractors can produce highly precise earthwork projections. Underground assets will be located precisely and included in clash detection routes. Owners will perform more sophisticated analysis resulting in higher efficiency.
Information is Key
These benefits rely on accurate survey work conducted by licensed surveyors. These professionals generate, aggregate, and produce key project data. In today’s world, information is a highly valuable commodity. Accurate, organized information is crucial to the success of your project, whether it is straightforward or complex.
Image via Shutterstock by Viktoriya
