Technical
We are experts in Land, Engineering and Measured Building Surveys for pre-construction, during and post build works. SEP Surveys – offering more as standard. Experts in a vast array of equipment we also offer survey equipment hire and repair.
Providing simple solutions to complex problems.
SEP Technical provides a wide range of technical requirements that you may come across before or during any construction project.
Our experts have a full understanding of all aspects of technical services, as well as access to the best resources available to offer you a bespoke solution to your project’s needs.
As well as providing a one-stop shop solution, we can also work towards satisfying a number of potential planning conditions set out by your local planning authorities, ensuring that your project is completed to the highest standards stipulated by these authorities.
Things we can cover include:
Aerial Mapping
Large scale current mapping is the crucial basis for any infrastructure project. It is vital that the mapping, being the base point for planning, is both current, accurate and holds the most relevant data. Many of us are familiar with Google Earth, Bing Maps and other similar web based mapping programs. At SEP we can build on this mapping, by supplying current data, at a level of detail to suit your needs.
Our Aerial Mapping equipment is capable of producing mapping images down to a resolution of 3cm and has the ability to derive digital elevation models (DEM) from the data collected. All this can be carried out very quickly; we can cover around 10km2 per day, and have usable data ready for delivery the following day!
Whether you are looking for a full 3D model of a larger area or a more intricate detailed photographic record of current site conditions taken from the skies, rest assured our aerial solution can be tailored to your needs.
Dilapidation Surveys
A dilapidation survey is an important part of many site works and SEP’s dilapidation surveys provide an in-depth record of any damage to the site prior to the commencement of works.
The condition of street furniture, kerb and channel, roadways, pavements and utilities are usually included in the survey record. Surveys can also incorporate the internal condition of a building or even a daily site aerial photographic record taken by our remote control drone.
SEP can deliver a snapshot of time with aerial and photographic records, a full-colour 3D laser scan, a videoed site walk over or drawings showing photographic positions, along with any damage.
As contractors are often held responsible for damage to third party properties, a dilapidation survey from SEP can provide the proof required to defend any claims/cost disputes regarding damage caused by construction works.
It is also vital for protecting a contractor’s reputation, financial position and insurance claims history, and could even be dovetailed into an insurance policy.
So, whether the site is a private dwelling or a large multi-million-pound infrastructure project, can you afford not to carry out a dilapidation survey?
Environmental Surveys
SEP is dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of the UK’s natural habitats, wildlife and landscape, balancing those environmental goals with clients’ commercial requirements and business development opportunities.
Potential environmental problems can jeopardise planning applications and changes to environmental and ecological legislation exacerbate this problem.
When protected species are involved, it is even more important for all partners to demonstrate that they are not only willing to mitigate any loss of biodiversity, but are also in a position to improve the area’s ecology to the satisfaction of Natural England and relevant Local Authorities.
By carrying out on-site ecological surveys and desktop studies and working closely with our clients and local authorities, we can improve the environment surrounding a project whilst achieving our client’s objectives.
Flood Risk Assessment
SEP specialises in flood risk assessments, carried out by MICE and MCIWEM qualified experts.
Our flood protection systems cover a diverse range of circumstances and could also save you money thanks to both our competitive fees and advice on avoiding potential planning fee losses.
Our services are:
- Drainage assessments
- Assessments of future flood risks based on the Environmental Agency and global projections. This is, of course, under continual review
- The establishment of models to provide exact knowledge of anticipated flood levels
Ground Investigation
This service is for builders, contractors, developers, surveyors, architects and engineers that need to obtain planning consent and a cost-effective foundation option for their project.
Our extensive track record in undertaking such works for both public and private sector clients includes major infrastructure projects, PFI initiatives and proposals ranging from single residential housing plots to major commercial developments.
Working within the timescales and budget for any proposed development, we will deliver all the technical input you need with a first rate, professional service, analysing samples for contamination levels using our close links with a number of UKAS laboratories.
Our ground investigation service can be linked to other SEP services to provide a complete package, involving volume reports, planning applications and topographical surveys to establish an accurate understanding of the nature of a site.
In-Situ Geotechnical Testing
Whether it’s for compliance testing, earthworks validation or the stability of platforms for piling rigs and cranes, our experienced team of field technicians will provide a professional independent assessment of the underlying materials
We can also offer a sampling of soils and aggregates, including:
- Plate Bearing Tests
- California Bearing Ratio (CBR)
- In-Situ Density Testing
- Sampling
Plate Bearing Tests
A service for those planning to erect a structure or heavy plant on land that may not have enough bearing capacity – for example on imported fill – this test will provide peace of mind and certification to prove that the land is suitable, or give you the information you need to take further action.
Typical examples include ensuring that buildings won’t suffer excessive settlement once constructed, or that large equipment, such as cranes and piling rigs, can be supported by the ground.
In order to perform this test, it is important to have sufficient kentledge to jack against to test bearing capacity. This could be equipment you have on the site such as a 360⁰ excavator, a mobile crane or a wagon loaded with material. The choice of plate size depends upon required bearing pressure and kentledge availability.
We also offer:
- California Bearing Ratio (CBR) Tests
- In-Situ Density Testing
- Sampling
Laboratory Soil Testing
Working with our strategic partners, SEP can offer a fully-independent, UKAS-accredited geotechnical and materials testing facility, with a team of almost 40 laboratory and field staff.
Excellent access to the UK motorway network ensures that we can meet any requirements for samples or in-situ testing at your convenience, regardless of site location.
Our flexibility and client-focused approach have seen us work on some of the nation’s most prestigious projects such as the Olympic Park and Village and numerous road and rail schemes.
Our senior management team has 70 years of combined experience, ensuring that you can always rely on expert advice from SEP.
Since first gaining UKAS certification in 2006, we have added to our scope of accredited methods year on year, ensuring that we can now offer a full range of in-situ testing techniques, along with testing for the subsidence claims industry.
We are equipped to carry out a wide range of testing as specified in BS 1377, SHW, ISRM, BRE and various BSEN methods and, in addition to routine testing, we also specialise in soil testing for ground improvement techniques, such as lime and cement stabilisation and swelling/heave and soil suction testing for the subsidence claims industry.
All our reports are supplied by email and can include AGS data if required.
Should you wish to find out more about any of the services that we offer please send us a message using the form on our Contact page.
