Topographical surveys guides
Practical guides and free tools on topographical surveys, written by the surveyors who do the work.
Need the work done? See our topographical surveys service.
- GuideConnecting a Leica Viva CS controller to a mobile Wi-Fi hotspotHow to connect a Leica Viva CS controller to a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, step by step, so it keeps working after the 3G switch-off.
- ToolConvert survey data (PXYZ) to AutoCAD quicklyFree tool to turn a P,X,Y,Z point list into an AutoCAD script, so surveyed coordinates import as points with labels in seconds.
- GuideHow much does a topographical survey cost in 2026?How much a topographical land survey costs in the UK in 2026, what drives the price, and practical ways to keep your survey cost down.
- CalculatorHow to calculate a gradient for drainage, wheelchair ramps and moreFind out how to calculate gradients for drainage, ramps and stairs. Use our free online gradient calculators or learn to work them out by hand.
- CalculatorHow to calculate bulking spoil volumeWork out the bulked volume of excavated soil and the trips needed to remove it. Free online bulking calculator and guidance by hand.
- GuideHow to design a French drainHow to design a French drain: common uses, trench size, gravel type and flow rates for your construction project.
- GuideHow to measure land using tapes or Google EarthHow to measure an area of land yourself with surveying tapes or the free Google Earth measuring tools, without hiring a land surveyor.
- GuideHow to use a surveying dumpy levelStep-by-step guide to setting up and using a surveying dumpy level to measure heights across your site, with tips on accuracy and care.
- GuidePreparations to consider before you build your new homeBuilding your own home? The key things to plan before you start so the project runs as smoothly as possible.
- GuideTwo peg test guide and calculatorHow to check your dumpy level is accurate with a two peg test, step by step, plus a free two peg test calculator.
- GuideWhat is a topographical survey? 2026 guideWhat a topographical survey is, what it shows, how it is carried out and why it is a crucial first step for any building project.
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