Introduction
Striking buried services is dangerous and costly. A utility survey before excavation locates pipes, cables and ducts where detectable, reducing risk and supporting CDM and design. This article explains why you need a utility survey before you dig and what you get.
Why it matters
Existing records are often incomplete or wrong. A utility survey uses electromagnetic and GPR techniques to detect services that may not appear on plans. Results are plotted on a drawing with quality levels so designers and contractors know where to allow for trial holes or extra care.
When to commission one
Before piling, groundworks, drainage runs or any significant excavation. For utility mapping that ties all services to one grid, see our utility survey cost guide.