New guide promotes better geospatial surveys

A new guide has been published to help UK professionals across construction, infrastructure and development sectors procure accurate, high-quality geospatial surveys. Titled “Do You Need a Survey?”, the guide was produced by the Survey Liaison Group (SLG) — a collaboration between the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES), the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), and The Survey Association (TSA).

Geospatial surveys are essential for planning and delivering concrete structures, from groundworks and foundations to large-scale infrastructure and precast installations. The guide outlines key considerations when commissioning surveys, including the importance of using qualified firms, verifying insurance and technical competence, and understanding survey control, safety, and required accuracy levels.

Simon Hamlyn of CICES said: “This is a first in our sector, providing the level of confidence that is essential to those considering commissioning a survey.”

The document is aimed at engineers, contractors, architects and asset managers, helping them avoid the risks and hidden costs that come from using underqualified survey providers. Poor-quality surveys can lead to design errors, costly rework, and even safety issues on concrete construction projects.

“The accuracy and reliability of early-stage survey data can determine the success of an entire project,” said RICS’ James Kavanagh. “This guide empowers clients to commission surveys with confidence.”

TSA’s Oliver Viney added: “Professionally recognised geospatial firms don’t just provide data — they provide confidence. This guide is about helping clients make the right call, first time.”

The guide is available to download via the CICES, TSA and RICS websites.