Detail and Level Survey

(Contour / Topographic Survey)

A Detail and Level Survey—also known as a Contour Survey, Topographic Survey, Site Survey, or Survey Plan (as some councils refer to it)—is a highly detailed survey that maps the natural and built features of a parcel of land. It provides the essential groundwork for any construction, renovation, or land development project.

At Sydney Terrain Surveyors, we use the latest surveying technologies—including Total Stations, GNSS (GPS) equipment, and laser scanners—to collect accurate and comprehensive data. Our surveys capture terrain contours, ground levels, man-made structures, vegetation, surface features, and visible services, all tailored to the specific requirements of your site and project.

Whether you're building a new home, lodging a Development Application (DA), planning a major commercial development, or simply wanting to understand your land better, a Detail and Level Survey provides the accuracy, compliance, and clarity needed to move forward with confidence.

Why a Detail and Level Survey Is Essential

A Detail and Level Survey isn’t just helpful—it’s often required by councils, designers, and engineers. It plays a crucial role in ensuring your project is viable, well-informed, and adheres to relevant planning controls.

Here are some of the most common reasons people engage us to conduct a Detail and Level Survey:

  • Development Applications (DAs): Councils frequently require a site survey to accompany your DA submission. It helps them assess the impact of your development on surrounding properties and the natural landscape.

  • Architectural Design: Architects rely on our surveys to design homes, extensions, and multi-unit dwellings with confidence, using accurate ground levels, feature locations, and existing constraints.

  • Civil & Structural Engineering: Engineers use our CAD-ready models and contour plans for designing drainage systems, retaining walls, roads, and building footings.

  • Landscape Design: A detailed site survey ensures that outdoor spaces are functional, balanced with the terrain, and aligned with stormwater management requirements.

  • Feasibility Studies: Developers use our surveys to assess site slope, access, services, and existing features to determine the best way to subdivide or develop the property.

In short, if you're planning any construction, design, or land development activity—a Detail and Level Survey should be your first step.

What Does a Detail and Level Survey Include?

Each survey is uniquely tailored to your land parcel and project. However, typical elements we capture and represent include:

Landform & Elevation:

  • Natural ground levels, contours, and slopes

  • Embankments, cut and fill areas, and earthworks

  • Watercourses, creeks, or surface drainage lines

Built Features:

  • Buildings, garages, sheds, and extensions

  • Neighbouring Windows

  • Driveways, paved areas, footpaths, and hardstand areas

  • Retaining walls, fencing, stairs, and swimming pools

  • Visible Service points such as stormwater pits, sewer manholes, water meters, power poles, and telco infrastructure

  • Fencing

Vegetation & Natural Features:

  • Trees

  • Rock outcrops, exposed bedrock, or other geological features

  • General landscape features that may impact design or stormwater flow

Boundaries

  • Boundary evidence such as fencing and survey marks

  • Easements, rights of carriageway, and restrictions

We present all this information in clear, well-structured plans and CAD models to ensure it’s easy for your architect, designer, or engineer to use.

Our Process: From Quote to Plan Delivery

We keep the process straightforward, transparent, and efficient. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Initial Consultation & Quote
    We start by discussing your project goals, the survey requirements (including any specific council needs), and the level of detail you need. Based on this, we’ll provide a fixed-price quote and timeline.

  2. Desktop Search

    Before attending site, we review publicly available records such as title documents, survey plans and aerial imagery. This helps us understand the site's context, identify key constraints, and plan an efficient and effective survey strategy. No two sites are the same—so we prepare accordingly.

  3. Site Visit & Data Capture
    Our experienced Surveyors attend your site using the latest survey equipment to record all relevant features. We work quickly, safely, and with minimal disruption to the property.

  4. Plan Preparation
    Back in the office, we process the data, calculate levels and boundary alignments, and prepare your survey drawings in both PDF format (for council and review) and DWG format (for use by architects and designers). Every plan undergoes internal quality assurance before being issued.

  5. Survey Delivery
    Your final Detail and Level Survey is delivered on time and ready to go—whether it’s for a DA submission, a design meeting, or engineering input.

Why Choose Sydney Terrain Surveyors?

  • ✅ Registered Land Surveyors with 20+ years of experience

  • ✅ Clear communication

  • ✅ Tailored survey solutions—no templates or cookie-cutter plans

  • ✅ Modern equipment for precision and efficiency

  • ✅ Local knowledge of Sydney, Central Coast, Blue Mountains, and Wollongong councils

  • ✅ Friendly service with transparent pricing and expert advice

At Sydney Terrain Surveyors, we understand that no two sites are the same. We don’t just measure—we interpret your land and deliver the information you need to move your project forward smoothly.

Ready to Get Started?

If you need a Detail and Level Survey, you're in the right place. Whether you're planning a new home, an extension, a subdivision, or a large-scale development, we’ll provide the high-quality plans and support you need—on time and within budget.