What is a floor plan?

A floor plan is a detailed drawing that provides a visual representation of the features on a specific floor of a property. In the context of a measured building survey, a floor plan includes all fixed features, such as room dimensions, windows, doors, and ceiling beams, as well as height information (Source: Authentic Property Survey). This type of floor plan is essential for planning permission and construction drawings, as it provides accurate measurements and layouts (Source: The RICS). The floor plan is a crucial component of a measured building survey, which involves measuring the property’s dimensions, layout, and features using specialized equipment (Source: Ratcliffe Property Surveyors).

Unlike estate agent floor plans, which are typically produced for marketing purposes and lack accuracy, measured building survey floor plans are designed to meet specific needs and requirements (Source: The National House-Building Council). These plans are created using specialized equipment, such as FARO 3D scanners or Leica Total Stations, which allow surveyors to capture precise measurements and layouts (Source: FARO Systems). As a result, measured building survey floor plans are more accurate and comprehensive than those produced by estate agents

Figurative 1: A screenshot of a floor plan produced from a measured building survey. This image shows the level of detail and accuracy that is achievable using specialized equipment and survey techniques. Note the precise measurements and layouts, as well as the inclusion of features such as windows, doors, and ceiling beams (Source: Authentic Property Survey). To better understand the potential cost and time implications of measured building surveys, consider the following:

Measured building surveys using specialist equipment can be more expensive, typically ranging from £250 to £1000 per week to hire (Source: Ratcliffe Property Surveyors). Additionally, these surveys can take longer to complete than estate agent floor plans, as the equipment and techniques used require more time and expertise. However, the resulting floor plans are more accurate and comprehensive, making them an indispensable tool for planning permission and construction drawings

To illustrate the level of accuracy and detail that can be achieved using measured building surveys, consider the use of equipment such as FARO 3D scanners. These scanners can capture precise measurements and layouts, and are capable of producing high-quality floor plans in a relatively short amount of time (Source: FARO Systems). Overall, measured building survey floor plans offer a level of accuracy and detail that is unmatched by estate agent floor plans, making them an essential component of planning permission and construction drawings