Case Study: Using 3D scanning to create a new retail tenancy plan in Sydney
Surveyors that can do laser scanning of retail shops


The Realserve surveyors in Sydney were engaged by Lendlease to create new retail tenancy documentation in their shopping centre at Erina Fair. Instead of using traditional survey methods we used a Leica BLK to create a 3D scan of the 130 square metre area. The data captured enables us to create a point cloud that can then be used to produce the traditional 2D documentation that suits many shop fitout businesses’ work flows.
How can a survey using 3D scanning be used for retail leasing?


Realserve survey teams use 3D laser scanners to fully capture the shape and details of an existing tenancy within a retail building. This technology has the benefit of minimal disruption at a site, with comprehensive data sets that can be used for both 3D or 2D architectural documentation.
In some situations a client may only require 2D documentation, although the advantages of 3D laser scanning to collect data for this type of project were extensive and included;
- Large amounts of data
3D Scanning enables Realserve surveyors to collect large amounts of data in short time blocks which makes this process highly efficient.
- Increased accuracy and detail
The seemingly cheaper or simpler approach could have been for the interior designer to try measure things themselves, although this can be time consuming and highly inaccurate. Realserve is able to deliver unbeatable levels of detail as well as being able to capture complex information such as bulkheads and things like varying ceiling heights.
- Reduced disruption and intrusion
Our use of 3D laser scanning equipment means there is little disruption for existing tenants & a reduced need for undertaking the measure outside of hours. When a tenancy is occupied it can be difficult for property managers and owners to arrange access, as many are fearful of disrupting business. Realserve can operate outside of usual business hours when required, but our expertise means we can deliver smarter solutions using 3D laser scanning. This method also means in situations where measuring intricate details in a high traffic retail space is required we can reduce the time spent on site with the utilisation of 3D laser scanning methods.

Creating an As Built survey plan means you are not relying on old drawings from when the building was designed or anything else, other than exactly how the property sits in its existing state. It gives you ‘today’s view’ of the property including any changes, modifications or alterations that have been made over the years.
Facility managers, leasing managers, interior designers and fit out companies enjoy these benefits of Realserve’s 3D laser scanning services:
- Rapid turn around, with our surveyors only needing one site visit with the 3D scanner to capture everything visible in the tenancy
- accurately represented and located features including stairs, lifts and voids.
- Completeness of data, including column size and locations
- Detailed floor levels
What else can centre operations managers get from a 3D scanning surveyor
A centre operation manager can engage a surveyor that does 3D scanning to produce various survey drawings that can be used in a retail environment. Sometimes these might also be used by the real estate agency managing the site. They can include things such as;
Lettable Area Plan;
A lettable area survey is a measured survey of a floor space for leasing purposes. Lettable area surveys are often used to assist with rental calculations, property valuation, and lease documentation.
Reflected ceiling plan;
If prospective tenants are considering renting the space they will most likely need to know exactly what services are in the ceiling and where they are located. Things like lighting, air conditioning, electrical wiring or other services will be located in the ceiling based on the original shopping centre construction or the previous tenant, a reflected ceiling plan can accurately depict where these are and what is in place.
Existing conditions survey;
if the retail space has already been fitted out and has cabinetry, shelving or other fixtures already installed then an existing conditions survey can capture all of this detail so it can be used for a new tenant to figure how how they will use the space or manage refurbishments.
Matterport Tour;
without visiting a site, there’s no better way to comprehend it’s layout, location and ambience than with an immersive 3D virtual tour. Matterport tours can be used to market a vacant tenancy to a prospective tenant, used by fit out companies to showcase their work, or by retailers to assist customers with negotiating the layout of their store and products.