Questions we get asked.

A measured building survey records an existing building's layout, dimensions and visible features. Often called a floor plan survey or an as‑built survey, it provides an up‑to‑date record of existing conditions for renovations, extensions and fit‑outs.

Our surveys are different from a traditional floor plan survey because we produce a comprehensive 3D BIM model for use directly in your design software (Revit, ArchiCAD, AutoCAD, etc).

A BIM survey is a type of measured building survey that captures an existing building and turns it into a 3D BIM model instead of 2D floor plans.

Unlike traditional 2D floor plans, which show the layout at each level, a BIM model represents the building in 3D, including the agreed architectural and structural elements, MEP services and fixtures.

The advantage is that this file can be used directly in the design software most architects, engineers and designers use.

In addition, floor plans, elevations and sections can all be exported as .dwg or .pdf from the same model, giving everyone on your project team an accurate picture of building dimensions and features.

We tailor the BIM model to your project. A typical survey includes:

• Architectural elements: walls, doors, windows, floors, ceilings, stairs, ramps, fixed joinery and built‑in furniture.
• Structural elements: visible columns, beams and concrete slabs.
• External features: façades, roofs, awnings, balconies, gutters and downpipes.
• Building services (MEP): visible ductwork, air‑conditioning equipment, electrical boards, cable trays, lighting, fire services and sanitary fixtures.
• In‑ceiling or roof void: we can scan within the ceiling or roof void but need suitable access (i.e. removing ceiling tiles or entering a crawlspace). Concealed elements can only be captured where suitable access is available.

The exact elements and level of detail are agreed in your quote.

We deliver a 3D BIM model (.rvt / .ifc) and a full suite of traditional 2D drawings as DWG CAD files (.dwg) and high‑resolution PDFs. Our standard set includes:

• 3D BIM model
• Floor plans
• Reflected ceiling plans (RCPs)
• Site plans (where applicable)
• External elevations
• Internal building sections

Model accuracy, or modelling tolerance, describes how closely the model matches the measured point cloud. We specify the required modelling tolerance in your quote to suit your project. Level of detail is a separate choice: it sets how much we model, not how accurately.

Typical modelling tolerances are ±30 mm (Low), ±10 mm (Standard) and ±5 mm (High), expressed as the average deviation between the model and the point cloud. They are not maximum errors or absolute survey accuracy. Model dimensions are rounded to the nearest 5 mm for consistency.

Accuracy varies with the surface being measured, the project requirements and the method of modelling. Hard surfaces such as concrete and steel generally support higher accuracy than ground or vegetation. Design‑intent models straighten minor irregularities for cleaner drawings, while as‑built models follow actual site conditions more closely.

We follow documented in‑house modelling standards, with the scope, level of detail and modelling tolerance agreed in your quote.

• Based on measured data: we model from the registered point cloud, using 360° imagery for visual reference.
• Consistent model setup: we use our Revit templates, standardised survey families, naming conventions and agreed project coordinates. Surveyed elements are assigned to the existing phase.
• Clear assumptions: dimensions that cannot be verified, such as concealed wall thicknesses, are labelled as assumed.
• Modelling method to suit your project: design‑intent models simplify minor irregularities for cleaner drawings; as‑built modelling follows real‑world deviations more closely.
• QA before delivery: completed models are submitted for review before release.

3D laser scanning lets us measure a building quickly, accurately and in much greater detail than taking individual measurements by total station, laser disto or measuring tape. Rather than recording selected distances, we capture millions of points across all visible surfaces and features.

This gives us a detailed 3D record to build your BIM model from, reduces missed measurements and return visits: we can answer many follow‑up questions from the scan data, and your design team can check dimensions remotely.

It's a non‑contact, non‑intrusive method of measurement, so we can work in live environments like hospitals, schools, factories, shops and offices without significantly disrupting the building's operations.

3D scanning time depends on the number of rooms, access restrictions and the complexity of the layout. We usually need 2‑4 scans per room; complex layouts or large areas may require more scans to ensure full coverage. If in‑ceiling services scans are required, an additional 4‑6 scans may be needed per room, depending on the configuration of services.

Most measured building surveys take 1 to 2 days on site, followed by 3 to 10 business days to process the scans, build the BIM model and complete QA. Larger or more complex buildings may take longer.

Your quote will confirm the expected fieldwork and delivery timeframes.

Our modelling team uses custom‑built tools and workflows developed in‑house, which make us efficient and give you a repeatable, reliable end deliverable. The cost depends on the building's size and complexity, site access, the elements to be surveyed and the level of detail required. Surveying a simple open warehouse generally takes less work than a similarly sized building with many rooms, complex geometry, extensive services or access restrictions.

Every ProSurvey building survey includes a BIM model and a set of 2D drawings. Send us the site address, a marked‑up survey area and your project requirements, and we'll provide a fixed‑fee quote outlining the inclusions, deliverables and timeframes.

Yes. We've surveyed operating hospitals, offices, schools, factories and water treatment plants. 3D laser scanning is non‑contact and non‑invasive, so most areas can be surveyed while the building remains in use.

We coordinate with your team to meet site safety requirements, arrange access and minimise disruption. Busy or restricted areas may need a quieter time slot, and clear access helps us capture features otherwise blocked by people, furniture or equipment.

A contour and detail survey records the levels, contours, features and services on your site so your design team knows exactly what's there. Our surveys are captured in 3D with laser scanning, so you get a 3D model of the site as well as the typical site plan drawing in DWG and PDF.

Yes. It's also called a site survey, feature survey or detail and level survey. It shows the levels, contours, features and services on your site. The survey is used when planning and designing new builds or redevelopments.

Using traditional survey methods, a surveyor picks up individual points (edge of road, building corner, etc.) and draws lines and points, most commonly in 2D. This method can be slow and prone to missed features. If any additional information is required, another site visit is needed.

At ProSurvey, we use 3D laser scanning to measure the whole site, capturing millions of points across every visible surface. You get a high‑resolution digital copy of the site, buildings and features. We use those scans to produce our comprehensive site BIM surveys. Because we've scanned the whole site, we can answer many follow‑up questions from the data, which reduces return visits, and your design team can check dimensions remotely.

Our standard inclusions are ground levels on a 5 m grid with contours every 0.25 m, changes in grade, retaining walls, buildings and floor levels, footpaths, roads, kerbs, fences, trees and all ground surface types, plus visible services. Your quote lists the survey area and every feature we'll pick up, and you can add or remove items to suit your project.

A 3D BIM model (.rvt / .ifc) and a contour and detail site plan in DWG and PDF. Every survey also includes a measurable 360° walkthrough and the registered point cloud.

We use an external utility locating contractor to locate services on site and include their findings in our survey.

We can use existing site control or establish our own. Surveys can be georeferenced to MGA2020 coordinates and AHD levels from GPS or the nearest government Permanent Survey Mark. We'll specify this in your quote based on your project requirements.

Yes. We can overlay the approximate boundary position from the digital cadastre (DCDB), or locate boundary pegs and reference marks on site for higher accuracy. Your quote states which option is included.

If no pegs or reference marks are found on site, you will need to engage a Registered Cadastral Surveyor to carry out a Boundary Identification Survey.

We do not offer boundary surveys and will not place any boundary pegs on site as part of our survey.

Yes. Because everything is scanned in 3D, we can include building footprints, floor levels, roof and awning heights, and even full building models when your project needs them.

It depends on the site area, terrain, vegetation, access, and whether you need boundaries or underground services. Send us the address, a marked‑up survey area and your requirements, and we'll provide a fixed‑fee quote.

A structure and object survey measures existing steelwork, equipment, machinery, glazing and other objects using 3D laser scanning. We turn the scan into an as‑built 3D model and dimensioned drawings suitable for design and manufacturing.

We use 3D laser scanning, a remote measurement method that allows us to measure objects from a distance. Generally, if it can be seen, we can scan it.

We've scanned steel structures, plant equipment and pipework, machine parts, and curved glazing on superyachts and buildings.

A 3D model in Revit (.rvt) or STEP (.stp), and dimensioned drawings in PDF and DWG. Every survey also includes a measurable 360° walkthrough and the point cloud.

Yes. We 3D scan it and model it with the dimensions your fabricator needs for replacement parts, refits or upgrades.

Yes, where they're visible and accessible to the scanner. Your quote lists the members and details we'll model.

Yes. We capture plant rooms, water treatment plants, pipework and steel structures as‑built for upgrades, clearance checks and clash checks.

Yes. We measure clearances from the scan to overhead power lines, the ground and nearby structures, and show them on the drawings.

Yes. We scan stockpiles, excavations and earthworks and report cut and fill volumes, with plans and sections.

That depends on the object, site conditions and the level of detail required. Typical modelling tolerances are ±30 mm (Low), ±10 mm (Standard) and ±5 mm (High), measured as the average deviation between the model and the point cloud.

We agree the modelling accuracy in your quote, so it suits your engineering or fabrication needs.

It depends on the size and complexity of the object, site access and what you need modelled. Send us photos and the deliverables you need, and we'll provide a fixed‑fee quote.

A floor or slab flatness survey measures how flat and/or level a floor is. We 3D laser scan the slab and produce a colour‑coded deviation map showing high and low spots, so you can see where it doesn't meet the design or construction standard.

Common reasons include checking a new slab before floor finishes go down, preparing for racking or machinery installation, investigating uneven floors, and confirming a builder's work before handover.

Movement monitoring repeats the survey over time. We scan from the same fixed survey control points on each visit and compare the results to show settlement, sagging or movement.

Buildings, retaining walls, pools, water tanks, steel structures, and buildings next to excavation or construction works.

That depends on what you're monitoring and why. We agree the number of visits and their timing with you or your engineer, for example before, during and after nearby works.

For a one‑off check, a colour‑coded deviation map in PDF. For monitoring, a movement report with maps and tables showing change since the first visit. Every survey also includes a measurable 360° walkthrough and the point cloud.

Yes. The same scan shows where walls lean or bow, with colour‑coded deviation maps for each wall.

Yes. We compare the scan with your design model and map where the built work differs.

Accuracy depends on site conditions and survey setup. We confirm the expected accuracy in your quote, so you know the results meet your project's needs.

It depends on the floor area, site access and, for monitoring, how many visits you need. Send us the site address, the area to check and what you need to know, and we'll provide a fixed‑fee quote.

3D laser scanning is a non‑contact technology that uses lasers to capture the exact physical shape and dimensions of a site or structure. The scanner projects millions of laser points per second to create a highly accurate digital replica made of point data—known as a point cloud.

Compared to manual or traditional methods, 3D laser scanning is significantly faster, safer, and more comprehensive. It captures millions of measurement points in minutes, reduces missed measurements and return site visits, and records complex or hard‑to‑reach features in detail. Your design team can also check dimensions remotely in the point cloud and walkthrough.

3D scanning is ideal for complex commercial or industrial redevelopments or upgrades, heritage site preservation, structural engineering, civil infrastructure, MEP/HVAC modeling and projects where precise spatial accuracy is essential.

Depending on your project requirements, we deliver processed Point Cloud files (.e57, .rcp, .las, .pts).

Every survey we do includes a free 360° walkthrough where you can take measurements (No install .exe file for Windows).

We can also use scans to produce 2D CAD drawings (.dwg, .dxf), or complete 3D BIM models (.rvt for Revit, .ifc for ArchiCAD and others).

Yes. Our deliverables are fully compatible with industry‑standard software like Autodesk Revit, AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, and Civil 3D. Architects and engineers can seamlessly import the point cloud data as an accurate 3D backdrop for immediate design work. Our expert team can help you integrate point clouds into your workflows.

We measure visible surfaces and features with high accuracy and detail. Achievable accuracy depends on the surfaces being measured, site conditions and survey control. For models, your quote states the modelling tolerance: typically ±30 mm (Low), ±10 mm (Standard) or ±5 mm (High), measured as the average deviation between the model and the point cloud.

A standard resolution single scan takes ~3‑4 minutes per scan and can capture everything within its line of sight up to an effective range of 10‑20m, depending on site conditions and obstructions. We take multiple scans to cover all areas within our scope of work. Your quote will specify expected 3D scanning survey duration.

Scanning time depends on the type of survey:

• 3D scanning time of an internal building depends on number of rooms, access restrictions and complexity of the layout. We usually need 2‑4 scans per typical room, complex layouts may require more scans to ensure full coverage. If in‑ceiling service scans are required, additional 4‑6 scans may be required per room, depending on configuration of services.
• 3D scanning time of an external site depends on complexity, visibility and accessibility. On a typical project we take a scan every 10‑20m. This ensures high coverage of site features and provides multiple scan stations for the 360 degree walkthrough.

Yes. Because 3D laser scanning is completely remote and non‑intrusive, we can measure occupied buildings, open public spaces, active construction sites, or high‑traffic areas without disrupting daily operations or endangering site personnel. We've done live hospitals, schools and universities, water treatment plants, factories and many commercial properties.

Pricing depends on several factors: the overall size and spatial complexity of the site, site accessibility, scan resolution that is required, and whether you need just point cloud and the walkthrough or if you want us to prepare 2D CAD floorplans, or full 3D BIM models in Revit or IFC.

To ensure the highest accuracy and speed, minimize line‑of‑sight obstacles where possible and ensure safe, efficient access to key areas. If we're scanning an external site, please mow the grass and remove excessive vegetation. In short, the more the scanner can see, the better the result will be.

Provide site inductions and access approvals ahead of time.

Scan to BIM turns a 3D laser scan into a BIM model. We use the point cloud to build an accurate BIM model in Revit or IFC of an existing building, site or structure, so your team can design directly on top of it.

A point cloud is the raw 3D laser scan: millions of measured points showing the surfaces captured on site. It's an accurate visual record, but it doesn't know what anything is. A wall is just a dense patch of points.

A BIM model is built from the point cloud. We model each element as a real building component, such as a wall, door, beam or pipe, with its size, position and type. Your team can design directly with it, and floor plans, elevations and sections can be produced from the same model.

In short: the point cloud records what's there. The BIM model turns it into building elements your design team can work with.

We model in Autodesk Revit and deliver native Revit (.rvt) files. We can also export to IFC for ArchiCAD and other BIM software, plus PDF and DWG drawings from the same model.

We offer three standard levels: Low (generic 2D symbols and lines), Standard (generic 3D families at true size, level and orientation) and High (custom 3D families, as close to the real thing as practical). We have a highly skilled team, and we can tailor our models to your requirements.

Yes. We can model with your company's families and standards, or create custom families and standards for your project or company.

Yes. Send us your registered point cloud, and we'll check its coverage and quality before quoting. We prefer the RCP/RCS file format, but can use E57, PTS, LAS and many others.

We agree the modelling tolerance in your quote. Typical tolerances are ±30 mm (Low), ±10 mm (Standard) or ±5 mm (High), measured as the average deviation between the model and the point cloud, not a maximum error. Concrete and steel generally support higher accuracy than ground or vegetation. Model dimensions are rounded to the nearest 5 mm. Higher modelling accuracies can be achieved, but it depends on the quality of the point cloud.

Either way, it's an option in the quote.

• A design‑intent model straightens minor irregularities for cleaner drawings.
• An as‑built model follows real deviations, such as out‑of‑plumb walls or sloping floors, more closely.

Every model follows our modelling workflow, standards and QA process. We have standardised workflows, templates and family libraries. Each model is checked against the point cloud by a manager before being sent out.

It depends on the size and complexity of the building, the elements you need and the level of detail. Send us your scope, or your point cloud, and we'll provide a fixed‑fee quote. Our modelling team is highly skilled, efficient and delivers high quality work consistently.

No. Accuracy is how close a measurement is to the real thing. Level of detail (Low, Standard or High) is how much we draw in the model. A Low detail model can still be very accurate.

Yes. A terrestrial laser scanner is LiDAR on a tripod: it measures millions of distances with laser light to build the point cloud. Survey‑grade scanners are far more accurate than phone or drone LiDAR.

Buildings, sites, structures and objects, plus movement, deformation and floor flatness. Schools, hospitals, offices, water treatment plants, billboards, factories and superyacht windows have all been through our scanners.

The measurable 360° walkthrough is included with every survey. It's a standalone Windows .exe file with nothing to install, so your team can walk the site and take measurements from their desks. RCP and E57 point clouds are included too, but they're large files that need specialised software and hardware.

If our deliverables don't meet the agreed scope or modelling tolerance, we'll correct them at no additional cost.

Degree‑qualified surveyors and a dedicated BIM manager, including two graduate surveyors registered with the Surveyors Board of Queensland. We're based in Brisbane and work across Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast, and travel further when it makes sense for your project.