A utility detection survey is a crucial process used to locate and identify underground utilities and infrastructure before any excavation or construction work begins.
It is a multi-faceted survey approach that can be tailored to your needs and typical features detected by a Utility Survey include:
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Metal pipes
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Plastic pipes
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Clay Drainage systems
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Electricity cables (both Low and High voltage).
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Data Cables
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Fibre optic cables, and more…
Here’s an overview:
Purpose: The primary goal of a utility detection survey is to accurately pinpoint the location, depth, and type of buried utilities to prevent damage, accidents, and service disruptions during construction or excavation projects.
Methods:
Generally, these are used in conjunction to get the most comprehensive and accurate data possible.
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Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR): Uses radar waves to detect subsurface objects and create a visual representation of underground utilities.
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Electromagnetic Induction: Utilises electromagnetic fields to identify conductive materials like metal pipes and cables.
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Radio Frequency (RF) Detection: Detects utilities that emit radio frequency signals, such as those in telecommunication lines.
Benefits:
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Safety: Minimises the risk of accidental utility damage, ensuring the safety of workers and the public.
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Cost Savings: Helps avoid costly repairs, delays, and fines associated with utility strikes.
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Project Efficiency: Provides accurate utility information for precise project planning and design.
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Environmental Protection: Reduces the potential for environmental hazards caused by utility damage.
Applications:
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Construction: Ensures safe excavation and trenching, reducing project delays and costs.
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Urban Planning: Supports infrastructure development and maintenance, preventing service disruptions.
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Emergency Response: Provides vital utility information during emergency situations.
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Environmental Assessments: Helps assess the impact of utilities on ecosystems.
Accuracy:
Utility detection surveys aim for high precision to ensure the reliability of the collected data.
Regulations:
Compliance with local regulations and standards is essential to ensure safety and the effectiveness of utility detection surveys.
Overall, utility detection surveys are a crucial step in any construction or excavation project, helping to mitigate risks, protect resources, and ensure the smooth and safe progress of work in urban and rural environments.
Utility detection surveys and utility mapping surveys are related, but serve different purposes in the context of construction and infrastructure projects.
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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.
Case Studies
We think you may be interested in reading our clients case studies.
Topographic Land Survey
Measured Building Survey
SURVEY QUOTATION
Upgrade your SUMO survey to include Statutory Records Search!
The SUMO Survey does not include a Statutory Records Search. Please ask a member of the team, and we would be happy to upgrade your service to include this.
Upgrade to include a full Topographic Survey
The SUMO Survey includes basic topographic features as a standard. However, if you are looking to get a detailed understanding of the nature of your site, we can offer you an easy upgrade to include full topographic information.
We can include street names, building names and house numbers to assist in the site location.
The additional information collected by upgrading to a full topographic survey includes:
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Inspection chambers
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Valve boxes
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Telegraph poles
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All building lines
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Fence and kerb lines
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Street furniture
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Utility Surveys
PAS 128 Utility Survey
Statutory Plan Collation
