Architecture
Essential for design, restoration, and redevelopment. Architects can import point clouds directly into their software to visualise, measure, and design within the real geometry of a building.
Point Cloud Surveys
Accurate, data-rich 3D representations of your site or building — providing the foundation for precise design, BIM modelling and analysis.
A point cloud survey is a highly accurate digital survey created using 3D laser scanning technology. Millions of laser points are captured across every visible surface of a site, structure, or object. These points combine to form a detailed 3D dataset known as a point cloud, representing the exact geometry of the real environment.
Point clouds can be viewed, measured, and modelled within CAD or BIM software, providing a permanent digital record of existing conditions.
They are ideal for projects involving refurbishment, heritage preservation, complex structures, or sites requiring precise dimensional accuracy.
- High-level accuracy – capture even the most intricate building details.
- Efficient data collection – rapidly scans large areas with minimal disruption.
- Comprehensive coverage – eliminates the need for repeat site visits.
- Supports BIM workflows – data easily converted into Revit or IFC models.
- Improves collaboration – provides a single source of truth for all project stakeholders.
- Reduces errors and costs – early detection of design clashes and dimensional conflicts.
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Projects we Support
Construction
Reliable as-built data for planning, verification, progress monitoring, and clash detection — ensuring every design decision is based on accurate site information.
Engineering
Supports precise modelling for structural, civil, and MEP design. Engineers can extract detailed dimensional data for analysis, modelling, and coordination with other disciplines.
Accreditations
Every Terrain Surveys deliverable follows a rigorously planned workflow to ensure exceptional accuracy and customer satisfaction.
3D Laser Scanning Process
- 1. Site Preparation: Survey control points are established using total stations and GNSS equipment.
- 2. Scanning: High-definition terrestrial laser scanners capture millions of data points per second from multiple positions.
- 3. Registration: The scans are aligned and combined into a single, unified point cloud.
- 4. Verification: Accuracy is checked against survey control data.
- 5. Delivery: The completed dataset is formatted for CAD, BIM, or visualisation workflows.
Deliverables
- Registered point cloud files (E57, RCP, RCS, LAS, PTS)
- 2D CAD drawings (plans, sections, elevations)
- Revit or IFC BIM models
- Digital Terrain Models (DTM)
- Accuracy certificates and survey reports
Project cost varies depending on:
- Site complexity and accessibility
- Level of detail (LOD) or required model accuracy
- Type of deliverable (point cloud vs BIM model)
- Additional processing or visualisation needs
Terrain Surveys provides free, transparent, tailored quotations with clear deliverables, ensuring maximum value for your investment. Get in touch for a no-obligation quote.
- Accreditation: TSA and CICES member surveyors.
- Experience: proven record across multiple sectors and building types.
- Standards: adherence to ISO 19650, and PAS 128
- Equipment: use of industry-leading Leica, FARO & NavVis laser scanners.
- Deliverables: ability to provide Revit, AutoCAD, and IFC outputs.
- Quality assurance: robust data verification and audit trail.
Choosing a Point Cloud Survey Service
When selecting a 3D laser scanning provider, consider:
- TSA and CICES accredited team
- Experienced BIM, Revit and CAD technicians producing industry-standard deliverables
- End-to-end service from site scanning to BIM model creation
- Quality assurance at every project stage
- Nationwide coverage and rapid turnaround times.
- Professional Levels of Insurance
Why Choose Terrain Surveys as Your Point Cloud Surveyor
At Terrain Surveys, we combine over 20 years of surveying excellence with state-of-the-art scanning technology to deliver highly accurate and dependable results.
Our work
From our main offices in Hertfordshire and Birmingham, we've carried out thousands of 3D laser scanning surveys across the UK, including in popular areas such as London, Manchester, Yorkshire, and many others. Browse our project case studies below or get in touch with our team to discover how we can help you.
Read more2 min readMeasured Building Surveys for Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation
Terrain Surveys were commissioned by Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation to complete 7 measured building surveys
Read more2 min read3D Revit Survey of Lichfield Garrick Theatre
A detailed 3D Revit survey while the venue was closed for summer maintenance
Read more3 min readTopographical Survey at Colchester Zoo
Terrain Surveys carried out a topographical survey at Colchester Zoo, working in and around animal enclosures
CONTINUE LEARNING
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Picture this: You're about to renovate your Victorian office building, or perhaps you're an architect designing a new mixed-use development in Manchester.…
Read more10 min read7 Benefits of BIM (Building Information Modelling) for Your Next Project
In any construction project, from a home extension to a new commercial development, the biggest risks are unforeseen costs and delays. But…
Read more21 min read3D Laser Scanning Survey: What is it, How it Works & When You Need it?
Chances are you’ve heard of 3D laser scanning. But what is it exactly? And more importantly, do you need one?
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