Throughout World War II Air raid shelters were installed across the UK. These varied from large public shelters built with bricks and reinforced concrete through to small private shelters using corrugated steel panels*. Many of these were removed after the war, however, others remain buried and are often encountered during construction works.
*In 1938, Anderson shelters were given free to families earning less than £5 per week. If you earned £5 or more it would cost you £7. Within months, one and a half million Anderson shelters were distributed to people living in areas expected to be bombed.
Whether a small back garden or a large brown field site, SUMO can conduct a geophysical survey to locate these buried structures before any construction work takes place.
The most suitable method to locate the position of a shelter, depends as much on the site conditions as it does upon the shelter construction itself. If the search area is large, it would be necessary to narrow this down, to allow the targeting of smaller areas with detailed methods. This may be achieved by carrying out a rapid magnetic survey, which is quick and cost-effective, and then targeting magnetic anomalies with Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), a high-resolution technique which gives depth information to the top of the shelter, as shown in the examples below.
Above: Example GPR radargram (section view). The planar feature at the end is representative of an air raid shelter.
Above: Interpretation of GPR data with probable air raid shelter marked with an in green hatch and possible further shelters marked in brown hatch.
Above: GPR Timeslice (plan view) showing an air raid shelter in the south east of the site at c. 0.75m depth. A pipe or service is also seen running through the site.
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How accurate is SUMO's underground utility survey and what types of utilities can it locate?Using cutting-edge technologies like electro-magnetics, signal induced threading, and Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR), our underground utility surveys accurately detect a wide array of buried utilities including metal and plastic pipes, drainage systems, electricity cables, telecoms, and fiber optic cables. The methodology ensures high accuracy without the need for invasive trial holes.
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What is the turnaround time for obtaining results with SUMO's Underground Utility Detection service?SUMO’s service is built for rapid response. Contractors can receive immediate results onsite. Our equipment provides real-time information, and once we leave the site, the detected utilities are visibly marked on the ground surface for quick reference.
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Does SUMO provide detailed mapping of the detected utilities for permanent records or construction purposes?Absolutely, SUMO not only marks the detected utilities on-site but also offers high-quality, color-coded survey drawings. These drawings can include topographic features and a comprehensive record of the utility detection survey, ensuring it meets the client’s needs for future reference or pre-construction design works.
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Topographical and Geophysical surveyIn addition to mapping out utilities, our experience team can accurately survey the land, creating topographical drawings for use. With our state-of-the-art aerial technology, nothing is missed.
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What additional information can be included in the underground utility mapping service provided by SUMO?In addition to topographic features, SUMO’s mapping service can include fixed surface utility features such as inspection chambers, valve boxes, and telegraph poles. It can also incorporate key topographic details like building lines, fence lines, kerb lines, street furniture, street names, building names, and house numbers, facilitating easy site location.
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Does the utility mapping service by SUMO include standard referencing and compatibility with existing survey data?Yes, SUMO ensures the utility mapping references the ordnance survey grid and level datum as standard. Additionally, the drawings can be supplied to a specified grid and level datum and can overlay an existing topographical survey, making it a versatile and adaptable service for various project needs.
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What sets SUMO Services apart from other survey providers?SUMO stands out due to our impeccable level of service with nationwide coverage, state-of-the-art equipment, and our commitment to delivering top-quality, detailed colour-coded survey drawings in both hard and electronic formats.
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How do I request a survey quotation from SUMO Services?Requesting a quotation is easy. Just click on the "Request a Survey Quotation" button on this page, and our team will get in touch with you promptly.
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Can I book a SUMO Survey online?Yes, you can! Simply click on the "Book a SUMO Survey" button on this page, and you can schedule your survey with us at your convenience.
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What type of survey is suitable for my project or site?Our experienced team will work with you to determine the most appropriate survey for your specific needs. Contact us, and we'll assist you in making the right choice.
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Can I obtain both digital and hard copies of survey drawings?Absolutely. We offer the convenience of electronic copies for digital use and hard copies for your records. Just let us know your preference.
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Do you provide custom survey solutions for unique projects?Yes, we understand that every project is unique. Our team is highly adaptable and can tailor our surveying services to meet your specific requirements.
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How do I get in touch with SUMO Services for further questions?For any additional questions or inquiries, feel free to contact us through the contact form, and our dedicated team will assist you promptly.
Geophysical Engineering Surveys
Air Raid Shelters
Cellars & Basements
Post Tension Cables
Underground Storage Tanks
Air Voids
Chimney Flues
Rebar
Water Engineering
Badger Setts
Earthing Installations
Sinkholes
Burials
Geological Application
Soil Thermal Resistivity Testing
Buried Foundations
Landfills
Structural Investigations
Buried Manholes
Mineshafts
