Scan to BIM Surveys
We convert 3D laser scan data into accurate BIM models for Revit, ArchiCAD and Vectorworks, giving you a reliable as-built model to design from. Without an accurate existing model, there's a real risk that new designs don't align with what's actually built and that creates problems further down the line.
Get a free quote- Revit BIM models
- IFC format exports
- LOD 100-300 modelling
- Architectural elements
- Structural components
- MEP coordination data
- Clash detection ready
- Point cloud registration
Why Scan to BIM?
Working in a BIM environment without an accurate existing model is a risk. Discrepancies between assumed geometry and what’s actually built can lead to design clashes, costly rework on site, and programme delays. A Scan to BIM survey removes that uncertainty. We scan your building and deliver a detailed Revit or IFC model that reflects real-world conditions.
Traditional measured building surveys give you 2D drawings. Scan to BIM gives you a full 3D model with more detail, better coordination, faster workflows and higher accuracy. Design teams can work directly in the model rather than redrawing from flat plans.
When You Need Scan to BIM
Scan to BIM is the right choice when your project demands a 3D digital model of an existing building:
- Refurbishments where no BIM model exists and the design team works in Revit
- Extensions to existing buildings that need accurate tie-in geometry
- Historic or listed buildings requiring precise 3D documentation
- Commercial fit-outs needing coordination between existing structure, services and new design
- Projects where 2D drawings don’t capture the full picture of complex spaces
- Facility management requiring accurate digital twins for ongoing operations
Advantages Over Traditional Surveys
Scan to BIM delivers significant advantages compared to conventional measured building surveys:
- More detail: structural elements, services, ceiling voids and complex geometry all captured in 3D
- Better coordination: clash detection between new and existing elements before construction begins
- Faster design workflows: architects and engineers design directly in the model
- Higher accuracy: based on millions of survey points, not manual measurements alone
- Future-proof: the BIM model serves as a digital asset for the building’s entire lifecycle
From Scan to Model
Our process starts with a detailed 3D laser scan of your building, capturing millions of measurement points. The registered point cloud is then used as the basis for constructing an intelligent BIM model in Revit.
Our modellers build walls, floors, ceilings, doors, windows, structural elements and MEP components directly from the scan data. The result is a coordinated, accurate 3D model that your design team can work with immediately. We deliver in native Revit (.rvt) format as standard, with IFC exports available for other BIM platforms.
What We Model
BIM deliverables tailored to your LOD requirements
Architectural Elements
Walls, floors, ceilings, doors, windows, stairs, railings and room boundaries modelled from scan data.
Structural Components
Beams, columns, foundations and structural frames captured and modelled to the agreed level of detail.
MEP Coordination
Visible mechanical, electrical and plumbing services modelled for clash detection and design coordination.
LOD Flexibility
Models delivered to LOD 100, 200 or 300 depending on your project requirements and budget.
How We Deliver Your BIM Model
Site Scan
Our surveyors capture your building using 3D laser scanners, creating a high-accuracy point cloud.
Registration
Scan data is registered, cleaned and quality-checked against survey control points.
BIM Modelling
Our Revit modellers build intelligent 3D elements directly from the point cloud data.
QA & Delivery
The model is checked for accuracy and delivered in Revit, IFC or your preferred format.
The Red Box Advantage
Scan & Model In-House
We handle both the laser scanning and the Revit modelling. One team, one point of contact, no coordination headaches.
Experienced Modellers
Our BIM team works in Revit daily. They understand construction and know how to model buildings that make sense structurally.
Fast Turnaround
Most Scan to BIM projects completed within 2-3 weeks from the site visit. Rush options available for tight programmes.
Fixed Pricing
Clear quotes upfront based on building size and LOD requirements. No surprises.
Fully Accredited
SSIP, CHAS, CSCS certified. Full professional indemnity and public liability insurance on every project.
UK-Wide Coverage
Nationwide service from our head office in Cheshire with satellite offices across the country.
Why Choose Red Box Surveys
90+ Years Combined Experience
Our senior management team brings over 90 years of surveying experience, ensuring every project meets the highest standards.
Nationwide Coverage
With satellite offices across the UK, we deliver efficient, cost-effective services wherever your project is located.
Latest Technology
We use advanced 3D laser scanning, GPS and GPR equipment to deliver precise, reliable data every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Scan to BIM is the process of 3D laser scanning an existing building and then using that point cloud data to create an intelligent BIM model in Revit, ArchiCAD or another BIM platform. The result is a precise digital twin that architects and engineers can design from directly.
We model to LOD 100, 200 or 300 depending on your project requirements. LOD 200 is most common for refurbishment and extension projects. LOD 300 includes more precise geometry and is typically needed for detailed design coordination and clash detection.
We deliver in native Autodesk Revit (.rvt) format as standard. We can also export to IFC for ArchiCAD, Vectorworks and other BIM platforms. Point cloud data is provided in RCP/RCS or E57 format alongside the model.
The underlying laser scan data is accurate to 1-2mm. The BIM model is built from this data and is typically accurate to within 5-10mm for most elements, depending on the LOD specified. This is significantly more accurate than models built from traditional measured drawings.
Yes. We model visible mechanical, electrical and plumbing services from the scan data. Concealed services within walls or above solid ceilings can't be captured by laser scanning but can be identified through complementary utility detection surveys.
The site scan typically takes 1-3 days depending on building size. BIM modelling takes 1-3 weeks depending on complexity and LOD. Most projects are completed within 2-4 weeks from the initial site visit. We provide specific timescales at the quotation stage.
Just site access and any existing drawings or information you have about the building. Even if the existing data is outdated or incomplete, it helps us understand the building before we arrive. We handle everything else.
Get a free quote
Ready to discuss your project? Fill in the form and our team will get back to you with a detailed quotation, typically within 24 hours.