What is a Set Out Survey?

A Set Out Survey is a critical step that translates your approved building plans into precise on-ground markings. A licensed Surveyor places pegs or markings on-site to show exactly where your building’s footings, walls, and other structural elements must be constructed — ensuring accuracy from the start of works.

What does a Surveyor do?

Your Surveyor will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a Set Out Survey includes:

  • Reviewing your approved construction drawings (including slab layout and structural plans)
  • Confirming boundaries and key site levels from the original survey
  • Accurately marking out the building footprint, walls, piers, and major setdowns
  • Providing an official Set Out Survey Plan or certificate (if required by your certifier or builder)
  • Coordinating with your builder to ensure the works align with your construction timeline


They help ensure your build starts in the right position, at the right height, and without breaching boundaries or setback controls.

Barry's Toolbox

Double-check that the version of the plans used for set-out is council-approved — setting out from an outdated drawing is a fast way to trigger costly rework.

What to look for in a Surveyor

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Licensing: Must be a registered Land Surveyor in your state or territory
  • Experience: Familiarity with residential construction and slab set-outs is key
  • Accuracy: Choose someone who works with robotic total stations or GPS gear for precision
  • Communication: A good Surveyor will coordinate clearly with your builder or concreter
  • Documentation: Ask if they’ll provide a marked-up Set Out Plan or certificate

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Surveyors for your Set Out Survey, you’ll need:

  • Site address and lot/DP number
  • Approved construction plans (latest DA/CC or CDC set)
  • Site survey or contour plan (from your Initial Site Survey)
  • Any engineering or slab drawings for footings and piers
  • Builder contact details and site start dates

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 3-5 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What’s included in the Set Out?

    The Surveyor will mark key points like corners, footings, piers, and walls — based on your slab or architectural plans.

  • Do I need to submit the Set Out Plan to council?

    Usually no — but it may be requested by your certifier, or needed if there’s a boundary dispute.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.