Why you should consider a digital terrain model survey

If you are planning to build any type of structure or to engage in any development of land that you have recently purchased, you will need to conduct a full survey of the area before you can start work. You might be satisfied with a simple boundary survey to ensure that the boundaries of the land are clear and are agreed on by all parties. Boundary identification is one of the most basic roles of a surveying company, but that is only the start of their work, and for most building projects a more detailed survey will be needed. One of the most useful types of survey is a digital terrain model survey. Understanding the topography of your land is just as vital as mapping the boundaries, and in some ways it is even more important, since you will need to gain formal approval for any structures you erect. Finding a company that can produce digital terrain model surveys can help to explain the multi-dimensional aspects of your chosen building site to all interested parties. Having a digital terrain survey available can make obvious the possibilities of the terrain in ways that other types of survey simply can't.

What exactly are digital terrain model surveys?

Digital terrain model surveys (commonly called DTMs) are really just a 3D digitised copy of a map generated by the use of precise data points. Often satellite scanning with remote sensing or aerial photography are employed in their creation when the map will cover a large area. At other times manual surveying work can be used to gather the data for the creation of the map.

How DTMs can benefit surveyors

DTMs can be used for a wide variety of surveying purposes, both above and below ground level. They provide a valuable 3D visual representation of the land, which helps clients to understand a proposal when they are unfamiliar with the use of maps, and, at a more serious level, they can help everyone to discern the expected terrain once a build has taken place. Below ground, they can be used to help design underground water systems or to otherwise discern the anticipated environmental impact of a proposed subdivision development.

Using digital terrain model surveys, you can ensure that a stable, safe building is created, and having all the information contained in the survey allows the client to avoid any nasty surprises and ensures that the project outcome is delivered effectively and within the set budget.