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The latest from SUMO GeoSurveys , providing a range of aerial and geospatial surveys using drones, known commercially as UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems).   One Survey; Multiple Rewards! UAS Multispectral Surveys have the capacity to detect sub-surface features with archaeological potential, even on sites hidden beneath crops. Multispectral surveys involve a UAS equipped with a 5-band sensor array which collects images at different wavelengths using reflected light. These bands are green, red, red-edge, near-infrared, and RGB, the latter of which can be processed to extract the blue band. For a survey area covered in vegetation, the reflectance represents the amount of chlorophyll present in the plants; an indicator of the plants’ health. Since plant health can be influenced by sub-surface features, multispectral surveys can show where these features are by the appearance of the plants in the processed image. For stripped or bare earth survey areas, the reflectance can represent soil organic carbon, soil moisture, or soil texture/density. This method can be used to complement geophysical surveys, and even serve as an alternative option when crops inhibit access on to site. Figure 1 : Dense crop preventing geophysics ahead of a multispectral survey Raster Transformations The multispectral orthorectified photo can undergo a series of raster transformations, according to different Vegetation Indexes (VIs). VI formulae combine surface reflectance using two or more wavelengths that are designed to highlight a particular property of vegetation, which may then indicate subsurface variation. These formulae are applied to multispectral images to produce a variety of indices. We typically carry out 9 transformations including: Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) which quantifies the presence of living green vegetation using reflected light in the visible and near-infrared bands; and Red Edge Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (RENDVI) which uses reflectance measurements in the Red Edge (RE) to establish changes in vegetation health. The various transformations provide a detailed account of plant health and soil composition, allowing for greater understanding of sub-surface potential. Figure 2 : Various vegetation indexes. Thorough Approach We have the capacity to capture RGB and multispectral data simultaneously, enabling us to conduct an earthwork and subsurface survey at the same time. With the ability to record upwards of 100 hectares in a single day, we can very quickly and efficiently provide detailed knowledge of an historic landscape. Both datasets will be georeferenced to OS coordinates, generally achieving an error of <3cm and a ground sampling distance of 1 – 3cm / pixel. The RGB survey will produce an orthorectified photo, Digital Elevation Model (DEM), and 3D model of the site, to complement the various transformations from the multispectral survey.   Figure 3 : Orthorectified photo of a large landscape   The various multispectral and RGB outputs are analysed to produce an interpretation figure, highlighting areas of potential archaeology. This forms the basis for a comprehensive discussion, outlined in an interpretive report. Figure 4 : Interpretation figure, providing the basis for a report Want to learn more? Please pick up the phone and speak to Simon Batsman on 07807 880516

The third topic in our solar series explores SUMO’s Geophysical surveys. As most solar farms are located in rural areas, there is normally a need to address the issue of potential archaeology, whether a 10ha or a 1000ha site. The good news, is that geophysical surveys provide a rapid, cost-effective method of evaluating archaeological remains, without excavation.  The most common technique used is a Detailed Magnetic Survey, which can be conducted in 3 ways: Handheld Surveys – on small sites or where access is compromised. Hand Cart Surveys – for larger sites, but where there is concern over potential crop damage or there are particular site conditions which preclude the use of an ATV. Cart and ATV Surveys – our most cost-effective survey, where we can collect up to 100ha/week! Above left – setting out a site with GPS for a handheld survey. Above Right – a handheld Magnetic survey in progress. Above - using the latest technology, SUMO can collect up to 100ha/week with our ATV towed Magnetometer cart systems. The typical targets which can be found are settlement sites and ditches; pits, post holes, field systems and enclosures; buried megaliths, plus kilns and industrial sites. Above – Geophysical data from part of a 200ha scheme. Above -  Plan view of magnetic survey data shows two rectilinear enclosures, of which the southern-most may be a cursus monument.  A north-east / south-west aligned field system has also been identified, along with a post-medieval field boundary, evidence of ploughing and modern underground services. A trenching strategy can now be devised using this data and  targeting the anomalies in the geophysics.   SUMO’s geophysical surveys inform the archaeological trenching strategy, targeting anomalies in the geophysics. However, in many cases the geophysics reveals no archaeology, which may negate the requirement for any intrusive archaeological investigation altogether.   Don’t forget that this is just one of eight surveys that SUMO can supply for your solar scheme, from Design, to Construction, and even Monitoring of your Solar panels once installed.

This is the first blog topic in our solar series and explores SUMO’s topographical capabilities and how this benefits a solar scheme. SUMO combines traditional topographic surveys with cost effective and accurate UAS (drone) topography to produce drawings and 3D outputs. This collaborative approach allows for large landscapes (including those which are inaccessible on foot) to be surveyed much more efficiently and in considerably less time than traditional methods, thereby also saving on cost. UAS surveys have the capacity to map 100+ hectares in a single day, providing a highly effective and efficient method for recording topographic landscapes. Above left – SUMO has an array of drones for different sites and conditions. Above right – a traditional topographic survey set up. How does it work? Ground control points are established around the site and recorded to OS coordinates with a GPS. Following this, a UAS with a gimbal-mounted camera is flown in an automated grid over the site, capturing photos at regular intervals from an altitude between 50 and 120m. The photos are then processed using photogrammetry software to produce a georeferenced orthophoto with a ground sampling distance of between 1 and 3 cm/pixel. The georeferencing aims to be within an error of 5cm, though is typically below 3cm. Outputs include a high-density, georeferenced point cloud which can be amalgamated with terrestrial data, Digital Elevation Models (DEM), orthorectified photos, and 3D models. The combined datasets can be drawn in CAD. Above: Orthophoto of a 110 hectare site. The survey will provide a full and comprehensive topographic survey where our surveyors aim to map all accessible features visible above ground. This includes basic site features such as existing buildings, walls, fences, surface changes, vegetation, tree positions and utility service covers. Above: CAD drawing combining UAS and terrestrial topographic survey data over a large solar farm. So, next time you need a topographic survey, why not consider commissioning a combined traditional topographic survey and UAS (drone) survey to capture higher resolution data, whilst maintaining the best levels of accuracy, in an efficient and cost-effective timeframe? Don’t forget that this is just one of eight surveys that SUMO can supply throughout our solar scheme, from Design, to Construction, and even the Monitoring of Solar panels once installed.

The second topic in our solar series explores SUMO’s Photogrammetry Surveys. As well as capturing topographic data, these surveys can be used to provide accurate models for landscape analysis and archaeological interpretations. In addition to capturing topographic data (covered in our previous blog), UAS photogrammetry produces highly accurate Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and orthorectified mapping of large areas, which can prove invaluable in designing the layout of a solar farm. The UAS photogrammetry method consists of taking aerial photographs in a grid pattern over a survey area and capturing vertical images from altitudes of between 50m and 120m, which enables the coverage of large areas in relatively short timeframes. The resulting images are processed to produce a point cloud, DEMs (Digital Elevation Models) and an orthophotograph. Textured Digital Elevation Models, like the example below, can help planners and designers to understand and visualise the landscape. Above: Digital Elevation Models (DEM) of a 300 hectare landscape survey. The DEMs can then be processed using GIS software to produce various models (including hill shading or terrain flattening to isolate the topography), which may aid the interpretation of the landscape and the configuration of the solar panels to be installed. Above: Greyscale hillshade produced from a DEM. Above: Terrain flattening to highlight the microtopography. The DEM can also be analysed using GIS to tease out micro-topographic features which can be discussed in an interpretive report. In addition, where a multispectral survey has been conducted, different vegetation indices are applied using raster transformations, such as NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) which can highlight the possible presence of other subsurface features (including archaeology), which might impact on the installation and layout of the solar panel arrays. Above: Example of an archaeological interpretation from a SUMO report. The design and installation of a renewable energy site is a complex and costly exercise, so it pays to maximise the potential output of the site through a careful analysis of the site at the design stage.  In these circumstances, the use of a SUMO Photogrammetry Survey can be invaluable in providing accurate data across large areas quickly and efficiently. Don’t forget that this is just one of eight surveys that SUMO can supply throughout our solar scheme, from Design, to Construction, and even Monitoring of your Solar panels once installed.

Solar Energy remains a hot topic and SUMO have eight applicable surveys from Design, to Construction, and Monitoring of your Solar Scheme. With over 1000 Solar Farms already operating in the UK and the Solar Market projected to triple in the next 5-10 years to meet the Government's commitment to reach net zero by 2050, there are 2000+ potential solar sites to investigate across the UK. Whether these sites are 1ha or 1000ha, SUMO has a bespoke suite of services to assist with planning, risk mitigation, detailed design and construction of your solar farm. Step 1: Topographic Survey Combining traditional topographic surveys with UAS (drone) topography to produce drawings and 3D Outputs, this collaborative approach allows for large landscapes to be survey much more efficiently. This traditional terrestrial survey will provide a full and comprehensive topographic survey, where our surveyors aim to map all accessible features visible above ground. This includes basic site features such as existing buildings, walls, fences, surface changes, vegetation, tree positions and utility service covers. We will also survey ground levels at a nominal interval (typically 5 – 20m depending on the requirements of the site), as well as any significant changes in ground levels, such as banking or slopes, to produce a comprehensive ground profile. Above -  A traditional Topographic Survey of a large Solar Farm. Step 2: Photogrammetry Survey As well as capturing topographic data (Step 1), UAS photogrammetry can also produce highly accurate Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and orthorectified mapping of large areas. This output is equivalent to LiDAR with the added benefit of increased resolution at 1 - 5cm, where existing LiDAR is typically 1m to 2m, or 25cm at best (when available). Textured Digital Elevation models, like the example below, can help to understand and visualise the landscape, thus aiding the design process of the solar farm layout. This is also a complementary technique to Step 3: Geophysical Survey. Above -Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) identifying the profile of the land, plus archaeological features hidden beneath the modern landscapes. Step 3: Geophysical Survey As most solar farms are in rural locations, there is often a need to address the issue of potential archaeology on site and Geophysical Surveys can provide a rapid, cost-effective method of evaluating archaeological remains without excavation.  The typical targets found are settlement sites and ditches; pits, post holes, field systems and enclosures; buried megaliths, plus kilns and industrial sites. However, in many cases the geophysics reveals no archaeology, which may remove the requirement for any intrusive archaeological investigation altogether. Above -  A plan view of magnetic survey data showing two rectilinear enclosures, of which the southern-most may be a cursus monument.  A north-east / south-west aligned field system has also been identified, along with a post-medieval field boundary, evidence of ploughing and modern underground services. A trenching strategy can now be devised, targeting anomalies in the geophysics. Step 4: Utility Survey Whilst an extremely detailed survey is required in city centres, on rural sites we conduct a perimeter survey only, and any services that are located, are traced across the site and their location recorded. This means that you get all the utility information that you need without spending a fortune on a survey which doesn’t give you any more information! Using the latest detection technology including electro-magnetics, signal induced threading and ground penetrating radar, SUMO can locate metal pipes, plastic pipes, drainage systems, electricity cables, telecoms and fibre optic cables. The survey data references the ordnance survey grid and level datum as standard. The drawing can also be supplied to a specified grid & level datum, as well as the option to overlay it on an existing topographical survey. Step 5: Electrical Earthing The design and installation of new solar farms and the associated electrical grid infrastructure, requires a full understanding of a site’s electrical properties in order to design an appropriate earthing system which may include earthing plates, earthing rods, or earthing pits. If not earthed correctly, solar panels and other electrical equipment can be damaged by electrical surges, lightning strikes, and other electrical disturbances. Such damage can then reduce the efficiency of the solar panels or wind turbines, and even cause them to fail completely, leading to costly repairs or replacements, impacting upon their operational efficiency. The electrical properties of a site are measured through soil resistivity testing, which measures the capacity of the ground to pass an electrical current. Testing is best performed to a depth of 50m or more (dependent upon the design needs), to provide the design engineer with an electrical model of the soil and bedrock layering, that can also be correlated with borehole data from the site. As a general rule, lower resistivities make the design and installation of an earthing system simpler. Above : Soil resistivity testing in progress on a new solar farm development. Step 6: Soil Thermal Resistivity Prior to the design and installation of underground electrical cables, it is important to understand the thermal properties of the in-situ soil or made ground, to ensure the heat produced by current flowing through an underground power cable is properly dissipated and avoid premature failures. Soil thermal resistivity testing measures the capacity of the ground to conduct or dissipate heat and the thermal resistivity of the soil will determine whether a buried power cable remains stable or overheats.  A build-up of heat around the cable can reduce transmission efficiency, or in the worst cases cause it to melt. Often estimations are made, but where conditions are uncertain or variable along a cable route, it is important that a proper quantitative assessment is made of the ground. Above - In-situ thermal resistivity testing with a needle probe. The testing procedure involves taking measurements along the cable route at intermediate or transitional locations. A needle probe is inserted in a pit or an open trench at the proposed cable depth. Thermal resistivity and conductivity readings can then be recorded and presented in a tabulated format to be used for accurate calculations by the installation engineers, prior to determining the capacity of the cable to be laid and the required sub-structure. Step 7: Setting Out Using the client supplied design plan, we can set out the entire site, including the solar panel pile positions, identifying exactly where they need to be located. Above – A plan of a solar farm for setting out. Step 8: Thermal Monitoring For established solar farms, SUMO can collect regular thermographic data, for analysis by solar farm monitoring companies, who can identify the effectiveness of the individual panels and locate any faulty ones, maintaining the Solar Scheme’s efficiency. When solar panels malfunction, it can mean a loss of efficiency and reduced energy production. Thermal imaging can detect heat signatures that may be indicative of defective solar cells. From a small group of panels on residential houses to a large solar farm, a UAS thermographic survey offers the most rapid and cost-effective solution to identifying panel defects and mitigate energy loss, whilst ensuring your investment is functioning at its highest level. Above – A thermal survey collected by UAS, showing a fault in one of the solar panels. Following all of these 8 steps will help you to meet your planning requirements, mitigate your risk and create the best and most cost-effective design for your site. Finally, don’t forget that SUMO can supply each these services independently, or as part of a bespoke package to meet your needs. We are here to offer advice and solutions, not just a survey: so, if in doubt, pick up the phone and speak to us!

Why commission a UAS Thermographic Survey? Thermal imaging uses Infrared Thermography (IRT) to detect infrared radiation emitted by an object and translate the reading into heat. By determining temperature variations and anomalies across a surface, our SUMO thermographic surveyors can identify defects which may lead to decreased energy efficiency and structural vulnerabilities. Thermographic surveys may identify… Poor Insulation Water Ingress Air Leaks Thermal Bridging Cold Bridging Solar Panel Defects The Problem… Traditional IRT using handheld thermal imaging cameras can generally only cover small areas at ground level or near to where the operator is positioned. As a result, acquiring thermal imaging from an elevated perspective, such as surveying roofs, can be difficult and complicated. The Solution… UAS-mounted thermal cameras offer quality, cost-effective, and safe solutions for thermographic surveys. Above: Thermal image of Pembroke Castle Keep to investigate vulnerabilities in the roof which may indicate water ingress UAS Thermographic Surveys for Buildings Inaccessible or fragile roofs that present health and safety issues can be safely surveyed whilst mitigating the risks posed by traditional survey methods at a significantly lower cost. It is further recommended that a UAS thermographic survey is undertaken alongside a UAS visual condition survey to acquire the most detailed information available and provide a high-quality solution. SUMO already use GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) to find cavities in buildings, but we can also conduct thermal imaging surveys by use of UAS (drone). This means that problematic areas for a GPR survey can also be easily assessed. Furthermore, larger areas can be covered in less time, allowing additional cost savings by selectively targeting the drone data and conducting a GPR survey in areas where more finite detail is required. Unlike GPR, UAS thermal imaging is not constrained by poor access, inviting the opportunity to survey larger buildings and structures which may otherwise not be possible. Above: Thermal imaging of an apartment block indicating heat loss around the vents and windows. UAS Thermographic Surveys for Solar Panels When solar panels malfunction, it can mean a loss of efficiency and reduced energy production. Thermal imaging can detect heat signatures that may be indicative of defective solar cells. From a small group of panels on residential houses to a large solar farm, a UAS thermographic survey offers the most rapid and cost-effective solution to identifying panel defects and mitigating energy loss, whilst ensuring your investment is functioning at its highest level. Above: Aerial photograph of a solar farm, captured by UAS Want to understand how we can help? Please pick up the phone and speak to Adam Stanford, Director Geomatics/UAS Survey on: 01684 592266 email : aerial-cam@sumoservice.com

Birmingham Children's Hospital Charity Continuing with our tradition of helping worthwhile charities, SUMO Geophysics Director, Claire Rose, recently presented Ellie Maybury, Philanthropy and Partnerships Executive at Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, at Birmingham Children Hospital Charity with a cheque for £1700. Ellie explained: ‘This money goes a long way. For example, each specialist baby cannula cost £10 each. But as well as the essential day to day medical equipment needed, the charity also has a new appeal which is to raise money for an iMRI which is an Interoperable MRI Machine. At the moment children have to be taken between the MRI suite and the operating theatre, but this will sit in a specialist theatre, eliminating the time currently needed to travel between the two areas therefore the disruption and trauma to children and parents, as well as ensuring changes in the brain, which can happen during surgery, are picked up immediately’. For more information about this latest iMRI appeal, click the logo below. Worthing Food Foundation As in previous years, SUMO decided to donate £50 to charity for orders received from its customers during December 2022. One of the chosen charities is the Worthing Food Foundation who run a non-referral food operation that supply seven days’ worth of dry, tinned and fresh food, as well as other essentials to people in need. SUMO through its clients, donated £1300 to help the charity continue its work, supporting several hundred people a week in the surrounding Worthing area. Above: SUMO Sales and Marketing Director, Ian Gregory delivering £1300 cheque to Matthew Potter of Worthing Food Foundation. SUMO take’s it Corporate and Social Responsibilities very seriously, not just as an employer, but socially to the wider community, so this year SUMO decided to support smaller local charities whose need is great during these tough times. “Thank you so much for the very generous donation from SUMO. It will help us to continue to support families in need in our community, and we are very grateful.”. Fiona Gallagher - Worthing Food Foundation.

We are delighted to announce that SUMO Services Limited will celebrate its 21st year of trade in 2022! In that time, the SUMO Group has expanded dramatically and gained the reputation of being one of the largest and most innovative Survey Providers in the UK. This is testimony to our continued investment in our staff (some of whom have been with the organisation for 10, 15 and even 21 years!) and the latest equipment and technology.

Work in progress! UAS video and photography can provide a unique record of new developments which can be used for marketing, social media, and general progress monitoring. Above : Site photo of the new Curzon Street Station for HS2 in Birmingham. Innovative Methods We use a combination of recording techniques to produce engaging material, including terrestrial photography and time-lapse, as well as UAS-based photography, video and panoramic spheres. Our in-house editors produce succinct videos to help showcase your development project. Above : Time-lapse of a new house build. Above : Construction of the new Westgate Shopping Centre in Oxford Repeat visits over a period of months or years allow our surveyors to capture your project from start to finish. Above : The Hereward Line video SUMO GeoSurveys have been working closely with the Fenland District Council to capture renovation works at March and Manea Station as well as filming the railway as part of the Hereward Community Rail Partnership’s 10-year celebrations. Want to learn more? Please pick up the phone and speak to Simon Batsman on 01684 592657

The latest from SUMO GeoSurveys, providing a range of aerial and geospatial surveys using drones, known commercially as UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems). Everything Aerial! SUMO GeoSurveys offer a suite of UAS surveys across a wide industry. From asset inspections to largescale topographic surveys, we deliver highly accurate and cost-effective results to help you with your project. Topographic Surveys UAS topographic surveys produce highly accurate data across large areas including those which are inaccessible on foot. This data can be combined with ground-truthing from a terrestrial topographic survey. Outputs include a high-density georeferenced point cloud, Digital Elevation Model (DEM) orthorectified photo, and 3D model. The combined datasets can be drawn in CAD. Point Clouds UAS photogrammetry surveys produce high-density point clouds for buildings and landscapes. This data can be combined with terrestrial topographic and laser scanning surveys to fill in gaps where ground techniques can’t reach. Solar Farm Surveys Thermographic surveys are essential in the maintenance of solar farms. Thermal imaging can detect heat signatures that may be indicative of defective solar cells. From a small group of panels on residential houses to a large solar farm, a UAS thermographic survey offers the most rapid and cost-effective solution to identifying panel defects and mitigating energy loss. Roof Inspections Roof inspections provide an effective and detailed record of the conditions of roofs and wall tops without the costs and risks associated with scaffolding and working at height. By producing a photographic record, UAS roof inspections can identify damage to masonry, lead work, roof tiles and chimneys as well as areas of water retention and ingress. A follow-up report can be provided to compile the photos and discuss the general condition of the roofs. Asset Inspections Equipped with a high-resolution camera, a UAS can capture detailed photos and video of structures or buildings from a unique perspective which may otherwise not be visible from the ground. Repeat visits, as required, allow for monitoring of assets over a specific duration to identify the general conditions of particular features and areas of concern. Volumetric Analysis Volumetric surveys conducted by UAS produce highly accurate calculations of stockpiles, spoil heaps and excavations without the need to access them on foot. Thermographic Surveys Thermal imaging uses Infrared Thermography (IRT) to detect infrared radiation emitted by an object and translate the reading into heat. The images are processed using thermographic software to identify hot and cold spots which may be indicative of air leaks, water ingress, or faults in photovoltaic cells. Thermal surveys are generally conducted at night to avoid disturbance from reflected solar radiation. Building Recording (3D Modelling) UAS photogrammetry is a cost-effective method for surveying places that are otherwise difficult to access, such as roofs and tall façades, without the need for scaffolding or ladders. As well as providing a highly detailed photographic record, historic buildings can be preserved as a 3D model from which outputs, including orthographic elevations and point cloud data, can be utilised by architects, masons, and engineers. Landscape Surveys UAS photogrammetry surveys have the capacity to map 100+ hectares in a single day, providing a highly effective and efficient method for mapping landscapes. This technique can complement large-scale topographic surveys ahead of new developments, produce a base map for commercial projects, and identify subtle earthworks with archaeological potential. DEMs (Digital Elevation Models) DEMs contain topographic data across the site. These models can be manipulated in GIS software to tease out subtle, microtopographic features, and provide a huge amount of information for interpretive reports. Multispectral Surveys Multispectral surveys have the capacity to detect sub-surface features with archaeological potential. This method uses a camera array equipped with multiple sensors to acquire data invisible to the human eye across the electromagnetic spectrum. When sub-surface features impact the overlying ground, they may be detected following a multispectral survey. Archaeology Surveys Our range of UAS geospatial surveys are among the most efficient, non-invasive techniques for identifying and recording archaeology. UAS surveys can be applied throughout the lifecycle of a project, from landscape surveys to detect features with archaeological potential and help target geophysics, to recording excavated sites for quick, high-resolution mapping. Internal Photogrammetry Photogrammetry is a versatile method for creating a visual record of features such as landscapes and buildings, however its application isn’t restricted to the outdoors. Subjects within buildings can also be recorded to produce high resolution orthographic photos and 3D models. Orthographic Elevations High-resolution orthographic elevations can be produced following a photogrammetry survey of buildings and structures. These images provide a detailed, scalable visualization which may assist architects and archaeologists alike. Stone-by-Stone Illustrations To further aid architects and archaeologists, detailed stone-by-stone illustrations can be produced from the orthographic elevation. Line Drawings Where only basic levels of detail are required, line drawings from the orthographic elevations provide a simple outline of the subject. Interpretive Reports GIS analysis provides the backbone of our interpretive reports, using photogrammetry to better understand the topography of a site. Where multispectral and thermography have been employed, these techniques can be combined to produce a thorough interpretation identify archaeological and environmental features. Detailed Figures The above report will present a series of figures including the site orthophoto, the DEM following various analyses, any multispectral images with raster transformations, and thermal images. These outputs serve as basis for an interpretation, amalgamating all the datasets into a single figure. Historic Building Reports Our Historic Building Reports follow a similar format to the above, though instead draws its results from the orthographic elevations and general photography. From this, phase plans can be produced as part of a thorough historic record. Water Leak Detection A multidisciplinary survey consisting of RGB and multispectral photogrammetry along with thermal imaging can identify possible leak locations. These can be targeted for further inspection using GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar). Want to learn more? Please pick up the phone and speak to Simon Batsman on 07807 880516

BOOK A SUMO SURVEY… Above: Scanner used to gather point cloud data for area calculations. Providing accurate, comprehensive calculations and reporting for all your Gross Internal Area (GIA), Net Internal Area (NIA) and volume measurement needs. Such surveys are essential for determining the size of a building or plot of land, and are the starting point for any property negotiation including sales, leases, acquisitions, property valuations, management, conveyancing, planning and building regulation applications. What’s more, they can save you money on expensive disputes. Our digital built environment services can provide you with the data you need in accordance with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Code of Measuring Practice, to remove the potential for disputes. Our surveys can cover small properties right up to large multi-tenured residential and commercial facilities. Above: Scanner being used for residential NIA calculations. WHAT AREA MEASUREMENTS DO YOU NEED? Two standard metrics are used in the measurement of an area: Gross Internal Area(GIA)/Gross Internal Floor Area (GIFA) This is the area of a building measured to the internal face of the perimeter walls at each floor level. Net Internal Area (NIA) This is the usable area measured to the internal finish of the perimeter or party walls at each floor level. Net internal area covers all of those areas that can be used for a particular purpose. Above: The EcoWorld Development at Kew Bridge, London (image courtesy of EcoWorld). SUMO Services carried out NIA measurements to all residential apartments, and GIA to all commercial units within an extensive development at Kew Bridge (Figure 3). This was conducted in accordance with the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Code of Measuring Practice, and comprehensive drawings and report, also complying with the RICS Code of Measuring Practice, were provided. Above: An example of a floor plan that can be produced for each flat/commercial unit identifying the areas included within the calculation for NIA (left). Also, a comprehensive ‘schedule of areas’ report was produced for each block of apartments, with all the necessary data the client would need (right). 3D Volume Measurements Computing volumes using simple 3D models provide a coherent and comparable set of building volumes for multiple purposes. Above: Using simple models, SUMO can calculate the volumes of multiple buildings across a site. Obtaining volume data for buildings is carried out by producing 3D massing models to provide quick calculations of multiple buildings across a site in cubic metres. Volume calculations can be carried out on all types of property, and provided on digital drawings and in a report, on a room-by-room basis or for a building as a whole. SUMO are here to provide you with: Accurate GIA and NIA floor area calculations for all types of building size and layout. Building volume calculations. 2D floor plans and floor area reports. Contact us today for a competitive quotation to meet your requirements. WANT TO LEARN MORE? Pick up the phone and speak to SUMO on: 0208 449 9143 email : Barnet@sumoservices.com Why not check out some of the other survey services available from SUMO Digital Built Environment? Enabling our clients to better manage their property assets, SUMO Digital Built Environment (DBE) projects range from small single buildings, heritage and archaeological sites to large commercial and industrial facilities.

From settlement to sinkholes, voids can cause a major problem on any site. Not only can they affect your design, budget and programme, but they could also result in major injury. Whether siting a crane, erecting scaffolding, or simply working on a site, if voids are present, it’s essential that you know about them before starting work or bringing any heavy equipment onto site. Underground voids can be associated with a whole array of features; from natural causes, such as sink holes and sea water ingress, to leaking pipes, and structural voids such as burials and basements. Similarly, voids in walls can be caused by issues such as chimney flues and structural delamination. The Answer - A Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) Survey GPR is an ideal technique to locate voids. The large electrical contrast between solid materials and air generates a high amplitude response, which should stand out clearly against the background reflections. Voids create a characteristic strong response with an area of ringing, to help us identify voids before they manifest themselves at the surface. Above: GPR Radargrams (section views) showing voids at 1m depth caused by water ingress along a stretch of promenade. High Frequency GPR SUMO Services have a range of GPR antennae to help find voids in a variety of conditions. Our high frequency antennas (1.2GHz – 2GHz) allows the signal to see up to 50cm to small voids caused by structural delamination and chimney flues. Above – Interpretation of GPR data showing location of chimney flues on a wall. Dual Frequency GPR While our Dual Frequency GPR system is ideal for carriageways, hardstanding or even burial grounds. By providing both 300 and 800MHz antennas, it allows a high resolution, shallow survey (c.1m) at the same time as a deeper, lower resolution survey (c2.5m) to help locate a wide range of voids within many different environments. Above - Dual Frequency GPR Survey and Timeslice plot (plan view) showing two area of voiding highlighted in orange. Single Frequency GPR Finally, SUMO have a variety of single frequency antennas for specialist applications. We have utilised these antennae in a range of applications from flood defences, harbour walls and water reservoir slipways. Above – antennas in all shapes and sizes - 1500MHz antenna, 400MHz antenna and 200MHz antenna. With a wide range of GPR equipment and a vast wealth of experience, SUMO are here to help you avoid any hidden dangers on your site. Want to learn more? Please pick up the phone and speak to Simon Haddrell or Richard Fleming on 01684 592266