Recommended providers for surveys and searches.
Desktop Searches
Utilities
| Provider | Product | Approx Cost | Notes |
|---|
| LSBUD | Asset search | Free | Legally required first step |
| Groundsure | Utilities Essentials | ~£375 | Comprehensive |
| Landmark | Utilities Report | Variable | Alternative to Groundsure |
| Emapsite | Utilities search | Variable | Good for technical projects |
Links:
- LSBUD: https://www.lsbud.co.uk/
- Groundsure: https://www.groundsure.com/
- Landmark: https://www.landmark.co.uk/products/utilities-report/
- Emapsite: https://www.emapsite.com/
Environmental / Ground
| Provider | Product | Approx Cost | Notes |
|---|
| Groundsure | Insight Report | ~£200 | Mining, geology, contamination |
| Groundsure | Combined package | ~£575 | Insight + Utilities Essentials |
Mapping
| Provider | Product | Notes |
|---|
| Mapserve | OS digital plans, site history | https://www.mapserve.co.uk/ |
| Groundsure | OS mapping included | Alternative to Mapserve |
Physical Surveys
Topographical Survey
| Provider | Notes |
|---|
| Lucion (Midland Survey) | Recommended. DWG output with levels. |
Link: https://www.luciongroup.com/who-we-are/our-companies/midland-survey/
Site Investigation
| Provider | Services | Notes |
|---|
| GIP | Boreholes, trial pits, lab testing | Recommended |
Link: https://www.gipuk.com/
Other Tools
| Tool | Purpose | Link |
|---|
| EA Flood Map | Flood risk check | https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/ |
| Planning Portal | Application submission | https://www.planningportal.co.uk/ |
| Coal Authority | Mining reports | https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/the-coal-authority |
Cost Estimates
Typical desktop package:
- LSBUD (free) + Groundsure Insight (~£200) + Utilities Essentials (~£375) = ~£575
Typical physical surveys:
- Topographical survey: £500–£1,500 (varies by site size)
- Site investigation: £2,000–£5,000+ (if required)
Notes
- Costs are indicative (2026 rates) — confirm with providers
- Add providers as relationships develop
- Record preferred suppliers per LPA if relevant