WAE survey checklist: what to prepare for an as-built survey

An as-built or Work as Executed (WAE) survey records agreed parts of completed construction. The measurements can then be considered alongside the relevant design information. The useful first question is: what does the receiving project team need recorded, and why?

A clear brief helps avoid commissioning a survey that leaves out information needed for handover or assessment. Use this checklist with your engineer, certifier or project adviser before requesting our as-built and WAE survey service.

1. Identify the person requesting the survey

Find the written request, drawing note or project condition that prompted the enquiry. Ask the person receiving the survey to confirm which information they need and how they intend to use it. Send that requirement with your enquiry.

Requirements are project-specific. For example, Sutherland Shire Council lists a Work-as-Executed drawing among the information for subdivision certificate applications. That example does not mean every project or council has the same requirement. Use the requirements that apply to your own work.

2. Supply the relevant design drawings

Gather the drawings that relate to the completed work and identify their revision. Tell the surveyor if a drawing has been superseded or if a design change is awaiting confirmation. If you only have part of the drawing set, explain what is missing.

Ask your project team which design reference should be used for the proposed comparison. Do not assume the surveyor can infer the intended design from a photograph or from the completed structure alone.

3. Define what has been built and what remains accessible

Describe the work to be recorded and its current stage. Make a list of the features your adviser has requested, rather than asking for an undefined survey of everything. Tell the surveyor whether work is still under way and whether any relevant element will soon be covered or become difficult to access.

Before concealing work that may need to be measured, ask your project adviser and surveyor about appropriate timing. This is a coordination question, not a universal instruction to wait until the entire project is finished.

4. Confirm deliverables and responsibility for assessment

Ask the receiving team which plans, file formats and supporting information they require. Agree the survey scope and deliverables before booking. A survey records information within that scope; any required engineering assessment, certification or approval should be identified separately with the responsible project professional.

If measured information differs from the design, ask the relevant adviser how it should be assessed and what further action is needed. The existence of a WAE plan should not be treated as an automatic approval of the completed works.

5. Coordinate access and the requested date

Provide the site location, access arrangements, construction contacts and requested delivery date. Explain the reason for the date so availability and dependencies can be discussed. Distinguish the site visit from preparation of the agreed deliverables and any later assessment by other parties.

If you are still positioning proposed construction rather than recording completed work, discuss a setout survey. If the request concerns the position of completed improvements in relation to boundaries, ask whether a final identification survey is appropriate. These services should not be treated as interchangeable.

Ready to enquire? Send SurveyWorx the written requirements and relevant drawings, along with a description of what has been completed.