OBTAINING SITE DATA/MEASURING

Responsibility:

  • The Drafter/Design Coordinator is responsible for obtaining accurate site data and measurements.

  • The Lead Designer ensures that all data is accurately documented and uploaded.

Timing:

  • Measurements should be obtained before starting the design phase and after initial client meetings.

Procedures

Notes:

  • Be highly accurate and detailed in and around areas of work.

Obtain Clear Photos of the Space:

  1. Take comprehensive photos of all areas involved in the project.

  2. Ensure photos are clear and capture all relevant details.

Obtain a Clear Video of the Space:

  1. Record a detailed video walkthrough of the space.

  2. Ensure the video covers all relevant angles and features.

Floor Plan Measurements and Documentation:

  1. Room Dimensions:

    • Measure and document all room dimensions.

  2. Door Swings:

    • Record door swing directions and space requirements.

  3. Angles:

    • Measure and note any angled walls or features.

  4. Stairs/Landings:

    • Document dimensions and locations of stairs and landings.

  5. Chases for Ducts, Fireplaces, etc.:

    • Record locations and dimensions of chases.

  6. Openings (Closets, Doors, Windows, etc.):

    • Label openings as window and door sizes (Width x Height in feet and inches). Example: a 5’6” wide x 4’ high window or door would be labeled as 5640.

    • Thickness of walls (important for Window and Door Jambs, Framing Etc.)

  7. Cabinets/Countertop Depths:

    • Measure and document depths of cabinets and countertops.

  8. Skylight Sizes and Locations:

    • Record sizes and positions of skylights.

  9. Appliances and Type (Gas, Electric, Propane, etc.):

    • Note the type and location of appliances.

  10. Notable Plumbing Features:

    • Document any significant plumbing elements.

  11. Notable Electrical Features:

    • Record key electrical components.

Site Plan Measurements (On-Site):

  1. Tree Sizes, Widths, and Approximate Overhangs:

    • Measure and document tree dimensions and overhangs.

  2. Setbacks from Structures:

    • Record distances from property lines to structures.

  3. Outdoor Appliances and Type (Gas, Electric, Propane, etc.):

    • Note the type and location of outdoor appliances.

  4. Notable Plumbing Features:

    • Document significant plumbing elements.

  5. Notable Electrical Features:

    • Record key electrical components.

  6. Notable HVAC Features:

    • Note any significant HVAC elements.

  7. Permanent or Hard to Move Furniture or Fixtures:

    • Document any fixed or heavy items.

  8. Hose Bibs:

    • Record the locations of hose bibs.

  9. Concrete, Pavers, etc.:

    • Measure and document areas with hardscaping.

  10. Pools and Spa Pads:

    • Record dimensions and locations of pools and spa pads.

Site Plan Measuring Using Google Maps:

  1. Use the measuring feature on Google Maps to obtain a measurement of one side of the property.

  2. Screenshot the full lot and open in AutoCAD.

  3. Draw a line the length of the measured side of the lot.

  4. Calculate the Scale Factor:

    • Convert all measurements to inches.

    • Divide the measurement shown on AutoCAD by the actual on-site measurement.

    • The result is your scale factor.

  5. Scale the screenshot in AutoCAD using the scale factor.

  6. Draw and measure the lot from the screenshot as needed.

Site Plan Measurements Using Assessor Parcel Maps:

  1. Google “[County of property] + Assessor Parcel map.”

  2. Find the digital map link and input the address.

  3. Measure using the digital map tool as needed.

  4. Download the assessor parcel map if possible.

  5. Obtain and input measurements as needed.

Elevation Measurements:

  1. Openings:

    • Measure and document dimensions of all openings.

  2. Ceiling Heights:

    • Record ceiling heights.

  3. Pitches/Slopes at Low and High Points:

    • Measure and note slopes and pitches.

  4. Stair Heights:

    • Document stair heights.

  5. Top Plate Heights:

    • Record top plate heights.

  6. Ridge Heights on Cathedral Ceiling, etc.:

    • Measure and document ridge heights.

  7. Roof Heights:

    • Record roof heights.

  8. Guardrail Heights:

    • Document guardrail heights.

  9. Grade Changes:

    • Note any changes in grade.

  10. Notable Plumbing Features:

    • Document significant plumbing elements.

  11. Notable Electrical Features:

    • Record key electrical components.

  12. Notable HVAC Features:

    • Note any significant HVAC elements.

  13. Permanent or Hard to Move Furniture or Fixtures:

    • Document any fixed or heavy items.

Other Site Data:

  1. Obtain clear and visible photos.

  2. Obtain clear and visible videos.

  3. Note any other important information.

Upload All Site Photos, Videos, and Measurements into BuilderTrend Project Folder:

  • Ensure all data is accurately documented and uploaded to the relevant project folder in BuilderTrend.