Site Survey in Ireland — Topographical, Measured, and Boundary Surveys
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Three types of site survey in Ireland: topographical (€400–€800, shows levels, contours, trees, and existing features — needed for design and planning), measured (€300–€600, records existing buildings, boundaries, and dimensions — needed for renovation and extension), and boundary (€500–€1,500, confirms the legal boundary vs the actual fence — needed if the folio map doesn't match the fence line). Order the topographical survey before you instruct the architect — saves redesign fees later when the architect has to redesign for a level difference or a feature they assumed away. Most architects will ask for a topographical survey as part of their brief and credit the cost against your design fees.
TL;DR
Topographical survey: €400–€800. Shows levels, contours, trees, and existing features. Needed for design and planning.
Measured survey: €300–€600. Records existing buildings, boundaries, and dimensions. Needed for renovation and extension.
Boundary survey: €500–€1,500. Confirms the legal boundary vs the actual fence. Needed if the folio map doesn't match the fence line.
Order the topographical survey before you instruct the architect. Saves redesign fees later.
When this matters most
You're commissioning design work or planning an application.
When this doesn't apply
Your site is on a flat, open field with no existing features.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a topographical survey cost in Ireland?
€400–€800 for a residential site. Shows levels, contours, trees, boundaries, and existing features. Most architects require one before starting design.
Do I need a boundary survey?
Only if the Land Registry folio map doesn't match the actual fence line. €500–€1,500. A deed of rectification may also be needed if the boundary is wrong.
Who does site surveys in Ireland?
A chartered surveyor (SCSI member). Most architects have a list of surveyors they work with. Get a quote from a SCSI-registered firm.
Sources
SCSI (Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland), Find a surveyor. https://www.scsi.ie/
Frequently asked questions
How much does a topographical survey cost in Ireland?
€400–€800 for a residential site. Shows levels, contours, trees, boundaries, and existing features. Most architects require one before starting design.
Do I need a boundary survey?
Only if the Land Registry folio map doesn't match the actual fence line. €500–€1,500. A deed of rectification may also be needed if the boundary is wrong.
Who does site surveys in Ireland?
A chartered surveyor (SCSI member). Most architects have a list of surveyors they work with. Get a quote from a SCSI-registered firm.