Balancing technical precision and considerate attention to architectural features alongside traditional building techniques enables the successful preservation and restoration of historic properties. Restoration, preservation, and adaptive reuse of construction works require fundamental data which is provided by Heritage Building Surveying.
A heritage survey may include many modern techniques including laser scanning, photogrammetry, and condition assessment, along with capturing details of aged structures. With such extensive works, one can either be preparing documents to get a conservation grant or managing refurbishment works of a listed building. It is essential to work with a heritage expert surveying company to get reliable results.
This article is meant to showcase an easy selection of the eight best providers in the UK who offer services related to historic building surveying.
Terrain Surveys
Terrain Surveys is one of the UK’s most respected names when it comes to measured and heritage building surveys. With castles, churches, and listed estates in their portfolio, their team is well-versed in the diverse heritage project challenges. Each representative structure is approached with precision that requires high-resolution 3D laser scanning and BIM-ready modelling, all while preserving the structure’s authenticity.
Their collaboration with conservation architects and relevant local authorities to fulfill planning and preservation goals illustrates what makes Terrain Surveys unique. Their deliverables are not only highly detailed but also tailored to suit the documentation standards required for historic buildings.
Our rating: 10/10
Price: From £850 per project
Link: https://terrainsurveys.co.uk
Plowman Craven
For many years now, Plowman Craven has been a leader in surveying heritage and conservation sites. They are responsible for some of the UK’s most renowned landmarks, and possess extreme skill in laser scanning, drone mapping and 3D digital modelling. All of their surveys are compliant with the guidelines set by Historic England, ensuring they are a preferred contractor for restoration works of enduring structures.
They understand the complexities of heritage documentation, from warped floor plans to intricate façade details. Plowman Craven also provides condition assessments and can integrate findings into BIM environments, ensuring modern restoration techniques align with traditional design elements. Their holistic approach makes them a leader in heritage building solutions.
Our rating: 9.2/10
Price: Starting from £1,300
Link: https://www.plowmancraven.co.uk
Greenhatch Group
Greenhatch Group offers an impressive track record in heritage projects, from cathedrals to historic town centres. Their services cover everything from measured building surveys to topographic and structural monitoring. They use Leica laser scanning equipment and photogrammetry to capture complex and delicate building features without causing disruption to the original fabric.
One of Greenhatch’s strengths lies in their adaptability. They tailor their outputs for different end uses, whether it’s conservation plans, planning applications, or CAD/BIM integrations. This level of flexibility has made them a go-to partner for both public heritage bodies and private conservation specialists.
Our rating: 8.9/10
Price: From £950 to £1,600
Link: https://www.greenhatch-group.co.uk
Geosight
Despite being new in the market, Geosight has built a name for itself for carrying out meticulous and high quality surveys concerning historic and listed properties. Their services include 3D laser scanning, orthophotos, and CAD drawings which are fundamental for developing and designing conservation plans.
Because of the excellent communication they provide to their clients, Geosight is a vendor of choice for clients and mid-tier developers seeking cost-effective pricing for heritage projects. What sets Geosight apart is the attention given to a building’s older features, which makes it distinct from many other generic service providers.
Our rating: 8.7/10
Price: From £700
Link: https://www.geosight.co.uk
SUMO Services
SUMO Services is well-versed in heritage surveying, especially when it comes to archaeological and subsurface investigations. Along with the standard building and structural measured surveys, they provide geophysical assessments, which are particularly beneficial for work in and around historic sites and Scheduled Monuments.
They participate in the preliminary stages of such heritage projects, teaming up with the heritage consultants and even the archaeologists for thorough understanding of the site. Their ability to provide integrated survey packages makes them a highly valuable asset for complex conservation and refurbishment initiatives.
Our rating: 8.6/10
Price: Starts from £1,000
Link: https://www.sumoservices.com
Central Surveys
Central Surveys has carved out a strong niche in the heritage space by delivering highly detailed and context-sensitive surveys. They specialise in producing 2D and 3D deliverables for use in planning and design, particularly for historic residential and civic buildings. Their precision and respect for architectural detail make them a trusted name in the sector.
The group has great experience working with listed buildings and coordinating these works with a conservation officer. Central Surveys makes certain that every detail is attended to in their mapping endeavors, be it a 19th-century school or a Tudor manor house.
Our rating: 8.5/10
Price: From £800
Link: https://www.centralsurveys.co.uk
The Survey Association Members (Various Firms)
Though The Survey Association (TSA) is not a single organization, it provides a list of accredited members who specialize in heritage building surveys. These companies maintain strict quality and ethical standards to ensure professional and uniform service for clients. Many of these members have participated in the construction of nationally famous heritage sites and are skilled at operating within conservation frameworks.
By using TSA’s directory, clients can find local firms with specific expertise in church restoration, listed buildings, and historical monuments. This is a great resource for those who need vetted options in specific regions across the UK.
Our rating: 8.4/10
Price: Varies by firm and location
Link: https://www.tsa-uk.org.uk
Digital Terrain Surveys Ltd
Digital Terrain Surveys Ltd is another strong contender in the heritage surveying market, especially for projects requiring both ground and building data. They use the latest in survey technology to produce highly accurate 3D models, floor plans, and elevation drawings of historic sites. Their experience ranges from small chapels to complex Victorian-era public buildings.
They are known for producing documentation that is both technically rigorous and visually accessible, helping clients navigate planning and renovation stages effectively. Their commitment to precision and preservation makes them a top choice for heritage architects and consultants.
Our rating: 8.3/10
Price: From £750
Link: https://www.digitalterrainsurveys.co.uk
Partner with the Right Experts for Your Heritage Survey
Choosing the right team for your heritage building surveys is more than a box-ticking exercise—it’s an investment in your project’s success and the future of the building itself. The companies listed here combine traditional respect for architectural heritage with the latest digital survey technologies to ensure that your restoration or redevelopment project is grounded in precision and care.
Whether you require full-scale BIM integration, orthophotos for planning, or simple elevation drawings, these firms deliver reliable heritage building solutions with the accuracy that conservation demands. Don’t leave your heritage project to chance—reach out to one of these trusted providers and take the first step toward preserving history with clarity and confidence.
