Council — Prepare Survey Files

Survey Existing Ground

Surveying existing ground is the first project-stage record of the surface to be changed. Agree the coverage before the survey so critical features are not omitted.

Before moving material

Define boundaries of work, reference control and required detail.

Receiving operation and checks

Issue the survey with datum, units and limitations stated. Check control-point agreement and representation of abrupt terrain changes.

A survey deliverable should not be confused with a legal boundary determination.

Prepare for Compaction

Preparation for compaction ensures that the compactor receives suitable material in the intended layer arrangement. Grading and moisture conditioning must fit the project requirements.

Before moving material

Confirm material, layer depth and compaction method.

Receiving operation and checks

Compact and test according to the brief. Inspect edges and areas inaccessible to the main compaction plant.

There is no single pass count or moisture target suitable for all materials.

Survey & Verify

Survey and verification compares the delivered surface with the brief before it is covered by the next layer. It should establish both compliant areas and defects.

Before moving material

Agree the acceptance method and reference.

Receiving operation and checks

Record accepted work and required corrections. Check the issued design revision and datum used for comparison.

A level survey cannot prove compaction, and a density test cannot prove grade.

Record the job inputs

Use this checklist to turn the scenario into a specific brief. Retain the design revision and agree who accepts each completed layer.

• Existing condition, extent and the reason for intervention
• Required finished purpose, receiving operation and acceptance criteria
• Material type, layer role, source, receiving area and volume state
• Reference levels, datum, survey method and issued design revision
• Available tractor, implement configuration, travel route and turning space
• Checks before work, stopping points and evidence retained at handover

Checklist ticks apply only while this page is open. Include the completed brief in your project records.

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Surface and verification · Applications and rental · Equipment and technology