Measure, Capture 2D, Capture 3D, or Showcase? How to Choose the Right Survey Level
A practical decision guide for clients commissioning building surveys
The Four Levels at a Glance
Regent Solutions offers four service tiers, each designed for a specific type of project and budget:
| Level | Best For | Accuracy | Deliverable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Measure | Early-stage planning, small spaces | ±10–20mm | Sketch dimensions, basic notes |
| Capture 2D | Planning applications, refurbishment design | ±3–5mm | CAD floor plans, elevations |
| Capture 3D | BIM projects, complex refurbishments | ±2–4mm | 3D model, point cloud, 2D drawings |
| Showcase | Marketing, handover, heritage | ±2–4mm | 3D model + polished walkthrough |
When to Choose Measure
The Measure service is ideal when you need a quick, cost-effective site visit to establish basic dimensions and layout. It suits:
- Pre-acquisition assessments where you need to understand a space before committing to a purchase or lease
- Early-stage feasibility studies where approximate dimensions are sufficient
- Small spaces (under 200 m²) where the cost premium of scanning is not justified
- Budget-constrained projects where accuracy requirements are modest
What you receive: a set of hand-measured dimensions and a basic sketch plan, typically delivered within 24–48 hours.
When to Choose Capture 2D
Capture 2D is the most popular service level for mainstream commercial and educational projects. It uses 3D scanning technology to produce 2D drawings of exceptional accuracy. Choose this level when:
- You need planning permission drawings that will be scrutinised by local authorities
- You are briefing an architect or interior designer who needs accurate base drawings
- The space is complex — multiple levels, irregular geometry, or extensive M&E
- You need elevations as well as floor plans
- The project value justifies investment in precision
When to Choose Capture 3D
Capture 3D delivers the full point cloud dataset alongside a complete 3D model. This is the right choice when:
- You are working in a BIM environment and need Revit-ready models
- The project involves complex structural or M&E coordination
- You want a permanent as-built record that can be interrogated in three dimensions
- Future phases of work will benefit from having the full 3D dataset available
When to Choose Showcase
The Showcase service adds a polished visual walkthrough to the full 3D capture. This is the premium option, ideal when:
- You are marketing a completed space to prospective tenants, buyers, or investors
- You need to present a project to stakeholders who cannot visit in person
- You want to document a completed fit-out for the client's records
- The end client will benefit from having a navigable tour of their space
The walkthrough is produced during a second visit after the space is complete, ensuring it captures the finished environment rather than the construction phase.
A Quick Decision Tool
Ask yourself these questions:
1. Do I need a 3D model or just 2D drawings? → If 2D is sufficient, choose Measure or Capture 2D based on accuracy requirements.
2. Will the drawings be used for planning or design? → Choose Capture 2D or above.
3. Is this a BIM project? → Choose Capture 3D.
4. Do I need a visual presentation of the finished space? → Choose Showcase.
Still unsure? Contact Ivan Francis for a free consultation. With a project location, approximate area, and a brief description of your requirements, we can recommend the right level within 24 hours.
Free Quote Within 24 Hours
Tell us your location, approximate area, and the level of service you need. Ivan will respond with a no-obligation quotation within 24 hours.
Contact Ivan Francis