When you might need an archaeological survey

A well established surveying company will be able to offer you expert advice on all aspects of your building project. An archaeological survey typically involves a near surface geophysical survey in archaeological prospection, for assessing a number of sites as part of the planning application process. A good quality surveying business will offer several cost effective methods for assessing your site.

The style of survey that is undertaken often depends on where your site is situated. Rural sites for instance only require low cost reconnaissance surveys. As a rural site often covers a large area, a survey should be conducted to assess the sites archaeological potential before any building work begins.

Urban sites in towns in cities on the other hand, have much different archaeological demands and surface conditions are often difficult work with. However, if you choose a high quality national surveying company, they will use the latest technologies to assess your site and give you the best advice in terms of planning and building.

Geophysical surveys are also used for historic buildings and churches to assess the particular building and its immediate environs. Targets found generally include vaults, tombs, graves and historic gardens.

As well as assessing the grounds of your site, your surveyor will take into account any below surface installations, such as pipes and cables which may cause problems. With an existing building an archaeological survey is conducted to examine the buildings background. For example, surveys on historic or listed buildings often uncover evidence on how the site was previously inhibited, including details on the foundations and profiles of any moats or historic gardens.

An experienced surveyor will ensure that your site is not prone to floods, subsidence or other high risk factors. By using high tech surveying equipment and mapping techniques they will ultimately determine whether the site is suitable for your proposed construction or maintenance work. An archaeological survey will also reveal how your proposed work will affect global warming, population growth and/or any changes to the countryside.

Once the survey is completed, your surveying company will then provide you with accurate data presented in an easy to read format. High quality colour drawings of your site will be produced using laser scanning technology to create a professional 3D plan, which will help you successfully complete the planning application process.

Discover if your chosen site is right for your project and get through the planning application process quickly and successfully with a national surveying company.