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Frequently asked questions

Common questions about 3D laser scanning, point clouds, scan-to-BIM, and how we scope a job. Need something specific? Contact us or read our resource guides.

General

How much does 3D laser scanning cost in Australia?+
Pricing depends on site size, complexity, and deliverables required. A single-floor commercial space (under 500 m2) typically starts around $1,500 to $2,500 for a point cloud deliverable. Larger sites, multi-storey buildings, and BIM modelling add to the cost. We provide fixed-price quotes before any site visit. Use our online pricing calculator for an instant estimate, or contact us for a tailored quote.
What is the difference between LiDAR scanning and photogrammetry?+
LiDAR uses laser pulses to measure distances and create a 3D point cloud directly. It works in any lighting condition and delivers millimetre-level accuracy. Photogrammetry uses overlapping photographs processed through software to reconstruct 3D geometry. It produces colour-rich models and suits aerial mapping and facades. For building interiors and precision work, we use LiDAR. For large-area aerial surveys, photogrammetry is often more cost-effective.
What accuracy do you achieve with terrestrial LiDAR?+
Our Trimble X7 and Trimble X9 terrestrial scanners capture individual points at +/-2 mm accuracy at ranges up to 80 metres. After registration and survey control, the overall network accuracy is typically +/-3 to 5 mm across an entire building. This exceeds the requirements for BIM LOD 300 modelling and suits renovation design, structural assessment, and heritage documentation.
How long does a typical scan take?+
A single commercial floor (500 to 1000 m2) takes approximately 2 to 3 hours to scan with terrestrial LiDAR. A three-storey office building is usually completed within a single day. For large industrial sites, our NavVis mobile scanner covers a 10,000 m2 warehouse floor in under an hour. We always provide a time estimate as part of your quote.
What file formats do you deliver?+
We deliver in whatever format your team needs. Common outputs include E57, RCP/RCS (Revit-native), LAS/LAZ, DWG/DXF, and GeoTIFF. For BIM projects, we produce Revit models to your specified LOD (typically 200 or 300). All deliverables are provided via secure cloud link.
Do you service areas outside Brisbane?+
Yes. While based in Brisbane, we service all major Australian cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, and regional areas. Travel is quoted at cost for projects outside Southeast Queensland.

Standards & compliance

Does Brisbane Point Cloud provide certified boundary surveys?+
Our core work is engineering and architectural laser scanning, not legal boundary definition. If your project needs title boundary work, we coordinate with a registered cadastral surveyor or work to control they provide. Scan deliverables are registered to the datum specified in your scope.
What accuracy should we specify on a scanning project?+
Specify the tolerance needed for the decision you are making. BIM coordination often needs +/-5 mm on structure. Earthworks may accept +/-20 mm. We document achieved accuracy in the project report based on scanner specification, control quality, and registration residuals.
How does ISO 19650 affect scan-to-BIM deliverables?+
ISO 19650 defines how information is named, staged, and handed over. Your BIM Execution Plan should state LOD, coordinate system, file naming, and delivery platform. We align Revit and point cloud exports to that plan so the scan drops into the CDE without rework.
Are your drone operations CASA compliant?+
Yes. Aerial capture is conducted under a current ReOC with CASA-licensed remote pilots. Flights follow approved operations manuals, site risk assessments, and airspace rules including NOTAM and proximity to aerodromes.
View full standards reference →

By service

Architectural & BIM Scanning
What accuracy can I expect from an architectural scan?+
Our terrestrial LiDAR equipment captures at +/-5mm point accuracy at typical interior ranges. After registration, the overall survey accuracy is typically within 3-5mm across the entire building. This exceeds the requirements for BIM LOD 300 modelling and is suitable for renovation design, compliance checks, and heritage documentation. We always provide an accuracy report with final deliverables so your design team can trust the data.
How long does a typical building scan take?+
A standard commercial building floor (500-1000m2) takes approximately 2-3 hours to scan, including setup and survey control. A three-storey office building can usually be completed within a single day. We schedule around building occupancy so there is minimal disruption to tenants or operations. Complex sites with restricted access or large floor plates may require additional time, which we scope during the pre-scan consultation.
Civil & Infrastructure
Can you scan active road corridors?+
Yes. We work on active roads regularly and hold current traffic management qualifications. For high-speed roads, we can deploy mobile LiDAR or UAV scanning to minimise lane closures. Lower-speed urban roads are typically scanned with terrestrial LiDAR under rolling traffic control. We coordinate with your traffic management provider or can arrange our own accredited crew depending on the jurisdiction.
How accurate are UAV LiDAR surveys for earthworks volumes?+
Our DJI L2 LiDAR payload achieves vertical accuracy of +/-30mm in open terrain at standard flying heights (60-80m AGL). For stockpile and earthworks volume calculations, this translates to volumetric accuracy within 1-2% for typical civil sites. We always place ground control points and check shots to verify accuracy before delivering results. The accuracy is suitable for progress claims, design verification, and regulatory reporting.
Industrial & As-Built
Can you scan while the plant is operating?+
In most cases, yes. Our scanners are eye-safe (Class 1) and do not interfere with electrical or mechanical equipment. We work around production schedules and can scan during shifts, shutdowns, or maintenance windows. Certain areas with extreme heat, steam, or explosive atmospheres may require special planning, which we address during the pre-scan consultation. We carry all required PPE and hold current working-at-heights and confined-space tickets.
What level of detail do you capture for piping?+
Our terrestrial scanners capture pipe runs down to approximately 15mm diameter. For process plant documentation, we typically model all pipes 50mm diameter and above with accurate routing, fittings, and support locations. Smaller-bore instrument tubing can be modelled on request. Each pipe segment includes centre-line geometry, outside diameter, and insulation thickness where visible. This level of detail supports retrofit clash checking and maintenance planning.
Drone 3D Mapping Brisbane
Do you have CASA certification?+
Yes. Our pilots hold CASA Remote Pilot Licences (RePL) and we operate under a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operator Certificate (ReOC). We carry $20M aviation public liability insurance and maintain all required operational documentation. We can fly in controlled airspace with CASA approval and have experience operating near airports, hospitals, and other restricted areas in the Brisbane and Southeast Queensland region.
How large an area can you map in a day?+
With our DJI Matrice 4T platform, we can map approximately 50-80 hectares per day with LiDAR (at 80m AGL, 10pts/m2 density) or 30-50 hectares per day with photogrammetry (at 60m AGL, 2cm GSD). Larger sites are scheduled across multiple days. These figures include setup time, GCP placement, and battery changes. Actual coverage depends on terrain, airspace restrictions, and weather conditions.
3D Laser Scanning & Point Cloud Survey
What is 3D laser scanning and how does it work?+
3D laser scanning is a surveying technique that measures the distance from a scanner to surrounding surfaces by emitting a laser pulse and timing the return signal. The scanner rotates rapidly, collecting hundreds of thousands of points per second, each recorded as an X, Y, Z coordinate with intensity and often RGB colour. The result is a point cloud: a dense 3D representation of the scanned environment. Modern scanners like the Trimble X7 achieve +/-2mm accuracy at 20m range and can capture a full 360-degree scan in under 3 minutes. The raw scans from multiple positions are then registered (aligned) into a single coordinate system using overlapping geometry or survey targets.
How much does 3D laser scanning cost in Australia?+
Pricing depends on site size, complexity, and required deliverables. As a general guide: a single-room scan with basic point cloud delivery starts around $800-$1,200. A full commercial building (3-4 storeys) typically ranges $3,000-$8,000 for point cloud delivery, or $8,000-$20,000 if BIM modelling is included. Large industrial or infrastructure projects are quoted per day of fieldwork (typically $2,500-$4,000/day) plus processing. We always provide fixed-price quotes after understanding your scope, so there are no surprises. Travel outside Southeast Queensland attracts a mobilisation fee.
Photogrammetry Services
What is photogrammetry and how is it different from LiDAR?+
Photogrammetry extracts 3D measurements from photographs by identifying common features across multiple overlapping images and triangulating their 3D positions. LiDAR directly measures distance using laser pulses. Key differences: photogrammetry produces high-resolution visual texture (colour imagery) and is generally lower cost for aerial surveys, but requires good lighting and visible surface texture. LiDAR works in any lighting condition, penetrates vegetation, and achieves higher geometric accuracy for engineering measurement. Photogrammetry accuracy depends on ground sample distance (pixel size) and control quality; typical aerial photogrammetry achieves 2-3x GSD accuracy (e.g., 2cm GSD yields 4-6cm positional accuracy).
When should I choose photogrammetry over LiDAR?+
Photogrammetry is the better choice when: you need high-resolution visual imagery (ortho-mosaics for planning, marketing, or visual inspection), the site has good surface texture and lighting, moderate accuracy (5-10cm) is acceptable, or budget is a primary constraint. It excels at producing visual basemaps, textured 3D models for client presentations, and facade documentation where colour information matters. LiDAR is preferred for engineering-grade accuracy, vegetation penetration, indoor surveys, or situations requiring measurement in poor lighting. We often recommend combining both on the same UAV flight.
Scan to BIM Modelling
What are LOD levels in scan to BIM?+
LOD (Level of Development) defines how much detail and reliability a BIM element carries. LOD 100 is a conceptual massing model showing approximate area and volume. LOD 200 includes generic elements with approximate size, shape, and location. LOD 300 has specific elements modelled to measured dimensions and positions (accurate to the scan data). LOD 350 adds interfaces and connections between elements. LOD 400 includes fabrication-level detail sufficient for manufacturing. Most renovation and facilities management projects require LOD 300. New-build coordination projects may need LOD 350. We quote based on the LOD you specify.
How long does scan to BIM modelling take?+
Modelling time depends on building complexity and LOD level. As a guide: a simple commercial floor plate (1,000m2) at LOD 300 takes 5-8 working days for architectural elements. Adding MEP modelling typically doubles the time. A full three-storey commercial building at LOD 300 (architectural + structural) takes 15-25 working days. LOD 200 is roughly 40% faster than LOD 300. Complex heritage buildings with irregular geometry take longer than modern commercial stock. We provide firm timelines with every quote based on the specific building and scope.
Point Cloud Processing
Can you process data from scanners you did not operate?+
Yes. We process point cloud data from any scanner brand or platform: Leica (RTC360, P-series, BLK), FARO (Focus, Orbis), Trimble (X7, X9, TX8), Riegl, Z+F, NavVis, GeoSLAM, Matterport, and UAV LiDAR systems including DJI, Velodyne, and Livox. We work with raw proprietary formats and can register data from multiple scanner types into a single unified point cloud. If your field team captured the data but lacks processing capability, we can take it from raw scans through to final deliverable.
What is point cloud registration and why does it matter?+
Registration is the process of aligning multiple individual scans into a common coordinate system. Each scan is captured from a different position, so they initially exist in their own local reference frame. Registration computes the transformation (rotation and translation) that best aligns overlapping scan areas. Poor registration results in doubled surfaces, blurred edges, and positional errors in the final dataset. We achieve registration accuracy within 2-3mm using a combination of surveyed targets and iterative closest point (ICP) refinement. Every project is delivered with a registration accuracy report.
Heritage Documentation Scanning
Is laser scanning safe for heritage buildings?+
Yes. Laser scanning is entirely non-contact and non-invasive. The Class 1 laser used by our equipment is eye-safe and operates at power levels far below those that could affect paint, timber, stone, or any building material. There is no UV component, no heat transfer, and no physical contact with the building fabric. The scanner sits on a tripod at a minimum distance of 1-2m from surfaces. Scanning is approved for use in museums, churches, galleries, and state/national heritage listed buildings without restriction. Many Australian state heritage offices now recommend or require 3D scanning as part of heritage management plans.
What heritage standards do you follow?+
We align our documentation methodology with the Burra Charter (Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance, 2013 revision), which establishes the principles for conservation of cultural heritage places in Australia. Our measured surveys comply with the ICOMOS Principles for the Recording of Monuments, Groups of Buildings and Sites (1996). For Queensland heritage-listed places, we follow the Queensland Heritage Act 1992 requirements for heritage impact assessments. Our deliverables are formatted for submission to state heritage registers and are accepted by heritage consultants for conservation management plans.
Construction Verification Scanning
What construction tolerances can scanning verify?+
Our scanning equipment detects deviations as small as 2-3mm, which is well within the tolerances specified by Australian construction standards. AS 3600 (Concrete Structures) permits +/-10mm positional tolerance for formed concrete elements and +/-5mm for surface regularity. AS 4100 (Steel Structures) specifies +/-3mm to +/-5mm for member positions depending on element type. We report all deviations and flag those exceeding the applicable tolerance. For floor flatness, we measure to ASTM E1155 methodology and report FF/FL numbers. The scanning accuracy is always finer than the construction tolerance being verified.
At what construction stages should scanning be done?+
The optimal scan schedule depends on what you need to verify. Common scan stages include: after excavation and piling (verify founding levels), after formwork placement (verify position before pour), after concrete pour (verify slab levels and wall positions), after steel erection (verify member positions and connections), during facade installation (verify panel positions and gap sizes), and at practical completion (full as-built record). Scanning at each stage creates a permanent record and catches deviations before they compound. For high-value projects, monthly progress scans provide continuous documentation and early warning of tolerance drift.
Topographic Survey Brisbane
How does LiDAR topographic survey differ from traditional total station survey?+
Traditional topographic survey measures discrete points one at a time using a total station or GNSS rover. A surveyor selects feature points (top of bank, invert, toe of batter, spot heights on a grid) and the resulting DTM interpolates between these measured points. LiDAR captures millions of points per second without manual point selection, producing a terrain model with point spacing typically 10-50cm. The resulting surface is far more detailed and captures subtle terrain features that spot surveys miss. LiDAR is also faster for large sites: a 20-hectare site that would take a two-person survey crew 3-4 days can be flown and processed in a single day. Accuracy is comparable (both achieve +/-30mm vertical with proper control).
What accuracy does a LiDAR topographic survey achieve?+
With ground control points and proper flight parameters, our airborne LiDAR achieves +/-30mm vertical accuracy (RMS) in open terrain at flight heights of 60-80m AGL. In vegetated areas, accuracy depends on canopy density and the proportion of laser returns reaching the ground. For critical engineering applications, we place additional check points in the project area and report achieved accuracy against these independent measurements. Terrestrial LiDAR achieves +/-5mm vertical accuracy for localised terrain surveys. Both methods exceed the requirements of typical civil engineering design (which usually specifies +/-50mm vertical accuracy for preliminary design).

By location

Brisbane

How much does point cloud survey cost in Brisbane?

Point cloud survey pricing in Brisbane depends on site size, access, and deliverables. A single-floor commercial scan typically starts around $1,500 to $2,500 for a registered point cloud. BIM modelling, topographic outputs, and multi-storey scopes are quoted separately. We provide fixed-price quotes before any site visit. Use our online pricing calculator or contact us with your address and scope for a same-day estimate.

Gold Coast

How do you service the Gold Coast from Brisbane?

We travel to the Gold Coast weekly and can schedule dedicated days for the region. Our team departs Paddington early and reaches Southport within an hour via the M1, with Coolangatta about 90 minutes away. For large or multi-day projects we set up locally and work consecutive days to minimise travel overhead. There is no additional travel surcharge for Gold Coast sites within the Southport-to-Coolangatta corridor. Projects further west toward Tamborine or Beaudesert may attract a small mobilisation fee depending on distance.

Sunshine Coast

How often do you work on the Sunshine Coast?

We schedule Sunshine Coast projects at least fortnightly, and more frequently when demand requires it. Our team reaches Caloundra in about 70 minutes from Brisbane via the M1, and Noosa in about two hours. For multi-room or multi-building projects we plan consecutive scan days to maximise time on site. We also coordinate Sunshine Coast and hinterland projects on the same trip when scheduling allows, keeping mobilisation costs down for all clients in the region.

Sydney

How do you manage Sydney projects from Brisbane?

We schedule Sydney projects in multi-day blocks, typically three to five consecutive days per trip. Our team flies in with all equipment and begins scanning the morning after arrival. For ongoing or phased projects, we return on a regular cadence agreed during the initial scope. This approach keeps mobilisation costs contained and lets us offer competitive pricing for Sydney clients. We have completed projects across the CBD, inner west, north shore, and western Sydney using this model. Flight costs and accommodation are included in our project quotes so there are no surprise charges.

Melbourne

How do you operate in Melbourne from Brisbane?

We operate in Melbourne through scheduled project blocks, typically three to five consecutive scan days per trip. All equipment travels with the team and we begin work the morning after arrival. For clients with ongoing requirements, we schedule regular return visits on a monthly or bi-monthly cadence. This model keeps pricing competitive with local Melbourne providers while giving you access to the same precision equipment and methodology we use on every project. All travel and accommodation costs are included in our fixed-price quotes.

Perth

Do you travel to Perth for scanning projects?

Yes. We schedule Perth trips for projects that justify the deployment, typically when the scanning scope is two or more days of on-site work. We bring all equipment from Brisbane and include flights, accommodation, and freight in our fixed-price quote so there are no hidden costs. For clients with multiple sites or ongoing requirements, we establish a regular cadence of visits. We can also combine your project with other Perth-area work to share mobilisation costs.

Adelaide

How do you service Adelaide from Brisbane?

We fly to Adelaide for scheduled project blocks, typically two to four consecutive days of scanning per trip. Direct flights from Brisbane take under three hours, so we can begin work early on the first day. All equipment travels with the team and travel costs are included in fixed-price quotes. For clients with recurring needs, we set up regular visit schedules that align with your project milestones. We have experience working across the Adelaide CBD, inner suburbs, Port Adelaide industrial zone, and the Edinburgh/Osborne defence precinct.

Canberra

How do you manage Canberra projects?

We schedule Canberra work in dedicated trips or combine it with Sydney-area deployments when project timing aligns. Direct flights from Brisbane to Canberra take about two hours, and we often drive down from Sydney when we have projects in both cities during the same week. All travel costs are included in fixed-price quotes. For government clients with ongoing scanning programs, we establish a regular visit cadence that matches your maintenance or refurbishment schedule.

Toowoomba

How long does it take to get from Brisbane to Toowoomba?

Our team reaches central Toowoomba in approximately 90 minutes from Paddington via the Warrego Highway and Toowoomba Second Range Crossing. This makes Toowoomba practical for day trips on smaller projects and eliminates accommodation costs that some providers charge. For larger multi-day projects, we plan consecutive scan days and stay locally if it makes logistical sense. There is no additional travel surcharge for Toowoomba projects.

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