Estimator — Method Statement Planning

Survey Existing Ground

Surveying existing ground is the first project-stage record of the surface to be changed. Agree the coverage before the survey so critical features are not omitted.

Before moving material

Define boundaries of work, reference control and required detail.

Receiving operation and checks

Issue the survey with datum, units and limitations stated. Check control-point agreement and representation of abrupt terrain changes.

A survey deliverable should not be confused with a legal boundary determination.

Establish Required Surface

Establishing the required surface converts a desired use into a construction brief. It should name geometry, layer roles and evidence needed before the next operation.

Before moving material

Identify the receiving operation and relevant design inputs.

Receiving operation and checks

Issue a coordinated brief to the grading and downstream teams. Check interfaces with buildings, roads, drains and neighbouring work.

An illustrative concept is not a construction specification.

Earthworks Design

Earthworks design compares existing terrain with the intended surface and accounts for material movement. It must also consider where the resulting water and traffic will go.

Before moving material

Obtain a suitable survey and identify constraints.

Receiving operation and checks

Issue the approved revision and construction checks. Review critical connections and quantity assumptions.

Geometric balance does not establish usable material balance or structural design.

Record the job inputs

Use this checklist to turn the scenario into a specific brief. Retain the design revision and agree who accepts each completed layer.

• Existing condition, extent and the reason for intervention
• Required finished purpose, receiving operation and acceptance criteria
• Material type, layer role, source, receiving area and volume state
• Reference levels, datum, survey method and issued design revision
• Available tractor, implement configuration, travel route and turning space
• Checks before work, stopping points and evidence retained at handover

Checklist ticks apply only while this page is open. Include the completed brief in your project records.

Continue through the network

Surface and verification · Applications and rental · Equipment and technology