Projects
Surveys and Feasibility
This route suits uncertain condition, proposed changes of use, capacity questions and early investment options. The survey brief should be tied to a decision, such as whether to retain plant, alter a layout or develop a replacement programme.
Discuss your requirementsProjects are judged by their evidence.
What the work includes
- Define the question and the information needed.
- Review existing drawings, reports and operating records.
- Arrange the appropriate survey disciplines and access.
- Compare options, constraints and further investigations.
- Present findings and recommended next-stage work.
Important decisions
A visual condition survey, intrusive investigation and specialist test answer different questions. Define the scope and access limits before the visit. Feasibility identifies viable directions and dependencies; it is not automatically a completed design or fixed construction quotation.
Assessment and the project brief
Provide the business requirement, estate information and known operating constraints. Identify what decision will follow the report and the level of cost or technical detail needed to make it.
How the project proceeds
- Define the decision and survey brief.
- Review existing information and arrange access.
- Inspect, measure or test within the agreed scope.
- Evaluate options and unresolved constraints.
- Set out the next investigations, design or delivery steps.
Working in occupied properties
Coordinate survey access with operational teams and record areas that cannot be inspected. Intrusive work needs agreed isolation, protection and reinstatement arrangements before it forms part of the survey.
Budget and programme factors
Survey depth, disciplines, access equipment and testing affect cost. Early feasibility allowances should identify their basis and remaining uncertainty. Spending on the right investigation can prevent a design being developed around an incorrect assumption.
Completion and handover
The report should distinguish observed condition, assumptions and further information needed, with recommendations linked to the project decision. Retain survey locations and references for later design and tender work.
Projects across sectors
Education needs varied buildings and operating constraints understood. Industrial premises need plant and process interfaces investigated. Property managers need clear findings for owner decisions. Explore the full sector range to connect the project with the premises and its users.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a survey and feasibility study?
A survey gathers information about the property or system. Feasibility uses relevant information to assess whether proposed options are practical and what they require.
Can one survey cover every technical issue?
Different questions may need different disciplines or tests. The brief should identify which matters are covered and which need specialist investigation.
Does a feasibility budget equal a contractor quotation?
No. It reflects the information and assumptions available at that stage. A defined construction scope supports a more developed price.
What happens if an area cannot be accessed?
The report should identify the limit and its effect on the decision. Further access or investigation can then be planned rather than treating the area as inspected.
Discuss surveys and feasibility
Send the property information, proposed outcome and decision the survey needs to support. Identify the available records and access restrictions. Contact Black & White Facilities.