What does a surveyor actually do on a construction site?

A construction surveyor ensures everything is built in the correct position, level and alignment based on design drawings.

On a typical job, this includes:

• Setting out gridlines, walls and columns

• Transferring levels across floors (TBMs)

• Checking slab heights and profiles

• Verifying structural elements after installation

In simple terms — we translate drawings into real-world positions so trades can build accurately. We provide these services across Melbourne construction projects, supporting builders, contractors and developers.

When should a surveyor be engaged on a project?

Ideally, a surveyor should be involved from early site setup through to completion.

Key stages include:

• Establishing site control

• Initial gridline setout

• Ongoing setout during structure

• As-built verification and final certification

Bringing a surveyor in too late often leads to rework, delays and cost overruns.

What is setout in construction?

Setout is the process of marking out the exact position of structural elements from drawings onto the site.

This can include:

• Columns and bolt locations

• Walls and edge beams

• Precast panels

• Service penetrations

• Steel elements

What happens if setout is wrong?

Incorrect setout can result in:

• Structural elements being out of tolerance

• Clashes between trades

• Costly demolition and rework

• Project delays

Even small errors can compound quickly across a build.

Do you work directly with site teams?

Yes — we work closely with:

• Site managers

• Foremen

• Engineers

• Formwork and concrete crews

We understand how jobs actually run on-site and adapt to sequencing, pours and program pressure.

How accurate is construction surveying?

Construction setout is typically carried out to millimetre-level accuracy, depending on project requirements and tolerances.

We use high-precision total stations and calibrated workflows to ensure consistency across all stages of the build.

How do you manage cumulative errors across a build?

Good surveying is not just about accuracy — it’s about control.

We:

• Establish reliable site control networks

• Regularly check and adjust control

• Verify key elements before proceeding

• Communicate early if something is out

This prevents small issues becoming major problems later.

What is a feature and level survey used for?

Feature and level surveys capture existing site conditions for design and planning.

They include:

• Ground levels and contours

• Buildings and structures

• Services and site features

• Boundaries (if required)

These are typically used for:

• Planning permits

• Architectural design

• Engineering design

What is an as-built survey?

An as-built survey records what has actually been constructed on site.

This includes checking:

• Slab levels and profiles

• Column positions

• Wall alignments

• Steel and precast installation

Why are as-built surveys important?

They:

• Confirm compliance with design

• Provide documentation for handover

• Identify issues early

• Reduce risk for builders and developers

Site Control & TBMs

What is site control and why is it important?

Site control provides a consistent reference system across the entire project.

Without proper control:

• Trades work off inconsistent points

• Errors compound

• Accuracy is compromised

What is a TBM?

A Temporary Benchmark (TBM) is a fixed level reference point used to transfer heights across a site or between floors.

How much does a construction survey cost in Melbourne?

Costs vary depending on scope, timing and site complexity.

Typical pricing structures include:

• Per pour (deck setout, precast setout)

• Per item (pile setout, gridlines)

• Per level (facade brackets, lift core checks)

• Lump sum or staged pricing for full projects

Can you be flexible on pricing?

Yes — we understand each project is different and are open to flexible, competitive arrangements to suit the job.

Do you work on ongoing projects?

Yes — many of our projects run across multiple months with regular site attendance aligned to construction sequencing.

Do you work on residential projects?

Yes — we provide:

• Title re-establishment surveys

• Feature and level surveys

• Setout for new homes and extensions

Do I need a survey before building?

In most cases, yes. Surveying is required for:

• Design accuracy

• Planning approvals

• Construction setout

What makes Base Surveys different?

• Over 20 years industry experience

• Degree-qualified surveyors

• Strong understanding of construction workflows

• Practical, site-focused approach

• Reliable and responsive service

How quickly can you attend site?

We aim to be highly responsive and can often attend on short notice depending on workload and project requirements.

Can you work off our drawings directly?

Yes — we regularly work from architectural, structural and shop drawings and can coordinate with engineers where required.

Can you adjust setout if design changes on site?

Yes — we understand that changes happen and can quickly adapt and reissue setout as required.

Do you provide CAD files and documentation?

Yes — we provide clear survey drawings and can integrate with existing CAD workflows where needed.

________________________________________

Contact

If you need a reliable, practical surveying partner for your project in Melbourne, Base Surveys can assist.

We work closely with builders and consultants to deliver accurate, efficient and buildable outcomes on site.