What Surveys Do You Need Before Building on Land?
Before you start building on any plot of land, it’s crucial to carry out the right environmental surveys. Without them, you could face planning permission delays, unexpected costs, legal issues, or even structural risks after construction.
At EnviroSolution, we help developers, architects, planners, and landowners get the surveys they need — fast, accurately, and affordably.
Here’s a breakdown of the essential surveys you’ll likely need before development:
🗺️ 1. Phase 1 Desktop Study – Your First Step
A Phase 1 Desktop Study is often the very first survey required.
It involves reviewing historic maps, environmental databases, and previous site uses to assess any potential contamination risks.
Why you need it:
- Planning Condition Requirement: Councils usually insist on it for planning approval.
- Identifies Past Site Uses: Old landfills, industrial sites, or petrol stations might present risks.
- Protects Future Occupants: Ensures your development will be safe for residents or workers.
✅ If any risks are found, you’ll need further investigation — known as a Phase 2 Intrusive Site Investigation.
Need to book a Phase 1 Study quickly? Request yours here.
🧱 2. Geotechnical Investigation – Building on Solid Ground
Once contamination risks are checked, you must ensure the ground can physically support your structures.
That’s where a Geotechnical Site Investigation comes in.
What it includes:
- Soil strength and stability testing
- Foundation design recommendations
- CBR (California Bearing Ratio) tests for road building
Without a geotechnical survey, you risk foundation failure — leading to costly defects like subsidence or settlement.
Learn more about Geo-Environmental Site Appraisals we’ve delivered to satisfied clients.
☣️ 3. Contaminated Land Assessment – Managing Hidden Risks
If your site has any contamination risks flagged, you’ll need a Contaminated Land Survey (Phase 2).
This includes:
- Soil and groundwater sampling
- Gas monitoring (e.g. methane or CO2)
- Risk assessment reports for planning officers
Ignoring contaminated land issues can lead to huge costs later — especially if councils force expensive remediation measures after construction.
EnviroSolution handles the whole process for you, keeping things compliant with local authority and Environment Agency guidelines.
🌳 4. Arboricultural Survey – Protecting Trees and Biodiversity
Are there trees on or near your site?
If so, you’ll need an Arboricultural Survey.
Why?
- Root Protection Areas must be respected (British Standard BS5837:2012).
- Councils require Tree Protection Plans (TPP) and Arboricultural Impact Assessments (AIA) for planning applications.
- Mature trees often have ecological or legal protection.
Our experienced arboriculturists provide clear, planning-compliant reports — ensuring your development and existing vegetation can coexist harmoniously.
🛠️ FAQ: Common Questions Before Building
Q: When should I start these surveys?
👉 As early as possible — ideally before submitting your planning application.
Q: Can surveys be combined?
👉 Yes! We offer bundled packages to save time and costs. Many clients combine Phase 1 Desktop Study + Geotechnical Testing together.
Q: How long do surveys take?
👉 Depending on site size, most reports are ready within 5–10 working days.
Q: What if contamination or unstable ground is found?
👉 Don’t panic — we offer full remedial advice, including remediation strategies and foundation redesigns.
📞 Ready to Build with Confidence?
EnviroSolution provides a complete package of environmental and geotechnical surveys — helping you secure planning permission smoothly, manage risk, and save money.
✔️ Fast turnarounds
✔️ Planning authority-approved formats
✔️ Professional liability insurance
✔️ Friendly expert advice
👉 Contact our team today to discuss your project, or request a quote online.
Build your project on strong foundations — with EnviroSolution.