The Role of a Surveyor in Sunshine Coast Construction Projects
Us surveyors play a fairly critical role in ensuring the success of construction projects here on the beautiful Sunshine Coast.
Our locale varied landscapes and stringent council regulations create unique challenges for us, builders, engineers, certifiers and of course, homeowners. I’ll explain why our expertise is vital in site planning, leveling, boundary location, and more to ensure that builders can work confidently and efficiently to build you the best house, renovation or extension possible.
1. IdentIFICATION Surveys: Defining YOUR Boundaries
Before any construction begins, it’s essential to know exactly where the boundaries of a property lie. This is where identification surveys (ident surveys) come into play. An ident survey confirms the precise location of existing property boundaries, ensuring that builders and property owners can avoid potential disputes with neighbors or legal issues down the line. In a region like the Sunshine Coast, where land parcels often vary in size and shape, getting these boundaries right is crucial.
As local surveyors with boundary experience, we frequently conduct ident surveys for residential and commercial developments to ensure that no construction occurs on neighboring land. Whether it’s a home extension or a new commercial development, we make sure the site is accurately mapped, giving peace of mind before the first shovel hits the ground.
2. Setout Surveys: Ensuring Construction Accuracy
Once the site is prepared and boundaries are confirmed, the next important step is the setout survey. Setout surveys guide the physical placement of the building by marking out the exact location on the site where construction will occur. This process is vital to ensuring that the structure is built in the correct location, according to the approved design plans.
Builders and developers rely heavily on accurate setout surveys to avoid costly mistakes. For example, if a building is positioned incorrectly, it could result in encroaching on neighboring properties or non-compliance with setback requirements, which can lead to delays and additional costs. This means we need to work closely with a variety of Sunshine Coast builders to ensure that every project is positioned accurately and adheres to all local council regulations.
3. As-Constructed (Ascon) Surveys: Verifying What’s Been Built
After the construction phase, it’s important to confirm that everything has been built according to the approved plans. This is where as-constructed (ascon) surveys come in. These surveys document the final positions of structures and key site features after construction is complete.
Ascon surveys are often required by local councils as part of the certification process, particularly for large-scale commercial or public works projects. These surveys help ensure that the completed construction matches the original design in terms of dimensions, placement, and height. We make sure that we provide detailed ascon surveys that give builders, developers, and property owners assurance that their project meets all regulatory standards and is ready for final approval.
4. Form 12: Certification for Compliance
For many Sunshine Coast construction projects, surveyors play a role in ensuring that structures meet local regulations through Form 12 certification. Form 12 certifies that a building or structure complies with planning laws, building codes, and other relevant regulations. It’s an essential part of ensuring that the project can move forward without legal or regulatory complications.
We frequently issue Form 12 certifications for builders who need to demonstrate compliance with all relevant codes before continuing with their work. By providing this certification, we help ensure that projects proceed smoothly and are in full compliance with all applicable laws.
5. Height Checks: Crucial for Multilevel Builds
One of the key concerns in construction, particularly for multilevel buildings, is maintaining correct height specifications. Height checks are essential for ensuring that buildings conform to approved height restrictions set by local councils. In many areas of the Sunshine Coast, specific height limits are imposed to preserve views, minimize overshadowing, and maintain the character of the neighborhood.
As experienced heught check surveyors on the Sunshine Coast, we conduct precise height checks at various stages of the building process, helping builders ensure that their projects meet height restrictions and avoid costly reworks. Height checks are particularly important during high-rise or multi-level construction projects, where even small errors in height can lead to significant issues.
6. Working with Builders: The Foundation for Success
The collaboration between surveyors and builders is key to the success of any construction project. A project’s accuracy, efficiency, and compliance with regulations depend heavily on seamless communication and coordination between these two roles. Surveyors lay the groundwork for the builders, providing accurate data, precise measurements, and crucial guidance throughout the building process.
At Edwards Surveying, we pride ourselves on working closely with Sunshine Coast builders to ensure that all projects are completed accurately and within regulatory frameworks. Our team understands the importance of providing reliable data at each stage of the project, from initial site planning to the final certification process. We support builders by conducting regular site visits, providing timely updates, and ensuring that all surveying work aligns with the needs of the construction team.
Surveyors play an indispensable role in construction projects across the Sunshine Coast, ensuring that every project begins with precision and ends in compliance with local regulations. Whether it’s conducting ident surveys to confirm property boundaries, performing setout surveys to mark the exact location of construction, or completing ascon surveys and height checks to ensure compliance, the team at Edwards Surveying is here to support every stage of the building process.