Measured Survey
A survey that records the actual dimensions of a building as-existing, producing measured drawings of plans, sections and elevations from direct physical measurement.
A measured survey is a systematic recording of the physical dimensions of a building or site, made by direct measurement. It produces drawings — plans, sections and elevations — that represent the building as it actually exists, rather than as it was designed.
Traditional measured survey uses tapes, rods, plumb bobs and levels to record key dimensions. Total station survey adds electronic distance measurement and angle recording. Photogrammetry and laser scanning now provide complementary or alternative methods for the same task at greater speed and density.
The standard reference for measured survey in the UK heritage context is Historic England's 'Recording Historic Buildings: a Descriptive Specification' (2016), which defines levels of recording from Level 1 (photographic record only) to Level 4 (detailed analytical survey). INTACH and ASI do not have an equivalent published specification for the Indian context, but the INTACH Charter references measured survey as a fundamental documentation requirement.
Questions about Measured Survey
How accurate does a measured survey need to be?
Accuracy requirements depend on the use of the survey. For conservation planning and monitoring: ±5–10 mm. For repair specification and fabrication: ±2–5 mm. For general documentation and planning: ±20–50 mm. The specification should define the required accuracy before survey begins.