Table of Contents
When planning construction, renovation, or landscaping projects, precise land information is crucial. Two essential surveys often requested by architects, builders, and homeowners in New South Wales (NSW) are the Contour Survey and the Detail & Level Identification Survey.
Although similar, these surveys serve distinct purposes. Understanding their differences will ensure you select the right one for your project.
What is a Contour Survey?
A Contour Survey, also known as a topographic survey, site survey, detail survey, and detail and level survey, is focused on capturing the natural features and elevation of your property. This survey is essential for projects involving new construction, extensions, or significant landscaping works. With a contour survey, your boundaries are in an approximate location – so it may not be accepted by your council or private certifier.
What Does a Contour Survey Include?
- Ground Levels and Elevations: Precise measurements showing slopes, gradients, and elevations.
- Natural Features: Trees, vegetation and existing structures.
- Contours: Lines representing points of equal elevation to illustrate land shape clearly.
When Do You Need a Contour Survey?
- Designing buildings or extensions where slope and elevation significantly impact design.
- Landscaping designs, including pools, retaining walls, and gardens.
What is a Detail & Level Identification Survey?
A Detail & Level Identification Survey also captures the natural features and elevation of your property, but our experienced team of surveyors calculate and define your boundaries.
What Does a Detail & Level Identification Survey Include?
- Ground Levels and Elevations: Precise measurements showing slopes, gradients, and elevations.
- Property Boundaries: Clearly defined to ensure accurate planning and compliance.
- Existing Structures: Detailed positioning of buildings, fences, retaining walls, and driveways.
When Do You Need a Detail & Level Identification Survey?
- Major renovations requiring precise measurements of existing structures and boundaries.
- Council submissions, where boundary clarification and structure positioning is essential.
- Projects involving significant structural changes, subdivisions, or developments.
Introducing 3D Surveys: Advanced Precision and Visual Clarity
At C&A Surveyors, we offer advanced 3D survey versions of both Contour Surveys and Detail & Level Identification Surveys. Utilizing state-of-the-art 3D laser scanning technology, our 3D surveys provide millimetre-precision detail and interactive digital representations of your site.
Benefits of Our 3D Surveys:
- Enhanced Accuracy: Capture every detail, minimising errors and rework.
- Visual Clarity: 3D visualisations make complex features easy to understand.
- Efficient Collaboration: Shareable digital models streamline communication between architects, builders, and stakeholders.
- Future-Proofing: Detailed digital records support future planning, upgrades, and dispute resolutions.
Key Differences Between Contour and Detail & Level Identification Surveys
| Aspect | Contour Survey | Detail & Level Identification Survey |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Elevation, slope, and land topography | Elevation, slope, land topography and boundaries |
| Application | Small renovations and landscaping | Renovations, boundary clarifications, council or private certifier submissions |
| Usual Recipients | Architects, building designers, landscape designers | Architects, building designers, builders, councils, property developers |
Benefits of Choosing the Correct Survey
Choosing the appropriate survey type can:
- Ensure accurate planning and reduce costly project adjustments.
- Facilitate quicker council approvals by providing precisely required information.
- Enable optimal design solutions tailored to the site’s unique characteristics.
Which Survey is Right for Your Project?
Consider the following guidelines:
- Contour Surveys are ideal for projects primarily affected by elevation, slopes, and natural topography.
- Detail & Level Identification Surveys suit renovations, subdivisions, and projects requiring detailed structural and boundary information.
Why Choose C&A Surveyors?
With over 15 years of experience and a 4.9-star Google rating from over 200 reviews, C&A Surveyors provides detailed, accurate, and timely contour and detail surveys across Sydney and Newcastle. Our advanced technology and industry expertise ensure your project’s accuracy, compliance, and success.
Contact us today to discuss your project needs and determine the right survey for you.
And check out our YouTube channel to view the latest on what we’re up to – click here.
FAQs
How much does each survey cost?
Costs vary based on property size, complexity, and location. Typically, Detail & Level Identification surveys cost slightly more due to their comprehensive nature. Contact us for a tailored quote.
Do I need a Registered Surveyor for my Detail & Level Identification Survey?
Yes, Registered Surveyors are the only surveyors that are legally permitted to mark boundaries of subdivisions in accordance with the Surveying Act. At C&A Surveyors, we have a team of Registered Surveyors that can assist you.
Are your surveys accepted by councils and certifiers?
Yes, our surveys meet NSW council and certifier requirements. For specific project advice and which survey may be right for you, please reach out directly on (02) 9167 0209.
How will C&A Surveyors help me through the process?
Once you accept your quote, we make it easy from start to finish. You’ll receive a link to C&A Connect, where you can track your job in real time, download reports, and get updates on progress.
Here’s what the journey looks like:
- Quote Acceptance – Review and approve your quote online.
- Job Scheduled – Our operations team contacts you to confirm site access and survey dates.
- Fieldwork – A registered surveyor visits your site and completes the survey.
- Drafting & QA – We prepare your plans and triple-check them for accuracy.
- Delivery – Your survey is ready for easy download.
- Support – Need help? Our team is just an email or call away for any follow-up questions.
Here’s more on how we bring your survey to life:
