BIM Surveys & 3D Modelling

3D Modelling & BIM

At South West Survey we offer a full in-house 3D modelling/BIM service.

Models can be produced from 3D point clouds or 2D drawings. These can be supplied to us or we can visit your site and deliver a full service from the initial site survey right through to the final 3D model.

Any building can be modelled from the simplest of dwellings to the most complex historical building.

3D models have many uses; they make fantastic marketing tools for developers and help local authorities visualise future developments. 3D models also help architects to see their latest creations in a real-world environment.

BIM (building information model) is becoming increasingly popular, especially with government projects as recent advances in legislation has meant large growth in the number of 3D models needed, this makes our BIM models a great resource for other professional parties to take forward.

LOD 1 – Massing Model

LOD 1 Will be an outline overall mass model of the building, site or structure. It will contain no window or door openings, services or architectural detailing.

LOD 2 – Structural Model

Progressing from LOD 1, an LOD 2 Structural Model will contain major structural components and openings in the building including floor slabs, columns, beams and structural openings of doors and windows in a basic form.

No services, architectural detailing or furnishings will be modelled, and no families will be built.

LOD 3 – Architectural Model

A LOD 3 model will additionally contain primary architectural details. Basic families can be created for doors and windows, whilst major services can be modelled in outline form. Fixed furnishings and fittings can be modelled in simplified form if requested.

LOD 4 – High Specification Model

An LOD 4 model will additionally contain detailed architectural and structural elements. Major and minor services can be modelled and there can be a higher level of detail in families and fixed furnishings. Additional details could include skirting, architraves, rails and radiators.

MEP can be added if requested.

Engineering Models

Engineering models can be produced of water treatment plants, oil & gas installations and other industrial facilities.

Benefits of 3D BIM Surveys & Modelling

At South West Surveys, we combine accurate survey data with in-house BIM modelling expertise to create reliable 3D models tailored to your project’s requirements. Whether you’re planning a refurbishment, development or engineering project, our models provide the information needed to make confident decisions from the outset.

• Improved coordination: Gives architects, engineers and contractors a shared, accurate model to work from.
• Early clash detection: Identifies potential issues before work begins on site.
• Reduced costs and rework: Minimises errors, site revisits and unforeseen issues.
• Better visualisation: Helps stakeholders clearly understand existing conditions and proposed designs.
• Long-term value: Creates an accurate digital record that can support future maintenance and asset management.

What Can BIM Models Be Used For?

3D BIM models support projects at every stage, from initial planning through to long-term asset management. Our models can be used for:

• Refurbishment and renovation projects
• Heritage and listed buildings
• Commercial and residential developments
• Design coordination and clash detection
• Structural and MEP planning
• As-built verification
• Planning applications and visualisations
• Facilities and asset management

Construction Site Engineering & Setting Out Services

Need precise layout and coordinate verification on-site? Alongside our 3D modelling, we provide full site engineering and setting out services across the South West.

Setting Out: Accurate establishment of gridlines, structural footprints, and level controls directly from your design files.

As-Built Verification: Digital comparisons of physical site progress against design models.

Based in Bristol, we provide BIM surveys and 3D modelling services across the South West, Wales and throughout the UK.