Desktop Utility Studies & Searches
Essential desktop research providing existing utility records and statutory information before your project begins. We compile data from all utility providers to give you a clear picture of underground services and reduce risk.
Get a free quote- Statutory utility records
- C2/C3 enquiry reports
- Plant protection advice
- Asset location plans
- Risk assessment data
- Utility provider contacts
- Emergency contact numbers
- Safe dig guidance
Informed Project Planning
A desktop utility study compiles existing records from all statutory utility providers, giving you essential data about underground services before you start on site. This reduces risk, supports informed planning decisions and helps prevent costly service strikes during excavation.
We contact all relevant providers including gas (Cadent, SGN, Northern Gas Networks), electric (UK Power Networks, Western Power), water, telecoms, drainage and fibre optic networks. The report includes asset location plans, plant protection guidance and emergency contact details.
What You Receive
Our desktop utility study report includes:
- Statutory records from all utility providers covering your site area
- Asset location plans showing known utility routes and infrastructure
- Plant protection advice and safe working guidance
- Emergency contact details for each utility provider
- Risk assessment data to support your construction method statement
- Recommendations for further investigation where records are incomplete
When You Need a Desktop Study
Desktop utility studies are recommended before any ground investigation, excavation or construction work. They form part of the PAS 128 framework as Quality Level D and are typically the first step before commissioning on-site GPR surveys or trial holes.
Many clients commission a combined package: desktop study followed by on-site GPR detection, with trial holes where needed for physical verification. This layered approach gives you progressively more detailed and reliable utility data.
What You Receive
Records from all utility providers
Statutory Records
Data from gas, electric, water, telecoms, drainage and fibre optic network providers.
Asset Location Plans
Maps showing known utility routes, infrastructure and connection points across your site.
Plant Protection
Safe working guidance and emergency contact details for each utility provider.
Risk Assessment Data
Supporting information for your construction method statement and CDM requirements.
How We Deliver Your Survey
Consultation
We review your requirements, assess the site and provide a detailed quotation.
Site Survey
Our qualified surveyors visit the site with the latest equipment to capture accurate data.
Data Processing
Raw data is processed, quality-checked and prepared in your required format.
Delivery
Completed survey data delivered on time, with full support for any follow-up queries.
The Red Box Advantage
Calibrated Equipment
Professional-grade instruments maintained and calibrated for accurate, defensible results.
Expert Surveyors
90+ years combined experience. CSCS certified, fully insured and professionally qualified.
Fast Turnaround
Most surveys completed and delivered within 5-10 working days. Rush options available.
Fixed Pricing
Clear quotes upfront with no hidden fees. You know exactly what you pay before we start.
Fully Accredited
SSIP, CHAS, CSCS certified. Members of The Survey Association with full professional insurance.
UK-Wide Coverage
Nationwide service from our head office in Cheshire with satellite offices across the UK.
Why Choose Red Box Surveys
90+ Years Combined Experience
Our senior management team brings over 90 years of surveying experience, ensuring every project meets the highest standards.
Nationwide Coverage
With satellite offices across the UK, we deliver efficient, cost-effective services wherever your project is located.
Latest Technology
We use advanced 3D laser scanning, GPS and GPR equipment to deliver precise, reliable data every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
We gather records from all relevant utility providers including gas, electric, water, telecoms, drainage, fibre optic networks and any specialist infrastructure providers. Reports include asset location plans and plant protection guidance.
Typically 5-10 working days from instruction, depending on the number of utility providers we need to contact and the complexity of the site. Express turnarounds are available for urgent requirements.
No. A desktop study compiles existing records (PAS 128 Quality Level D). An on-site utility survey uses GPR and electromagnetic equipment to physically detect utilities (Quality Level B). Both are recommended for thorough risk management.
It's strongly recommended. The desktop records give our surveyors baseline information about what to expect on site, improving detection rates and helping identify discrepancies between records and reality.
Get a free quote
Ready to discuss your project? Fill in the form and our team will get back to you with a detailed quotation, typically within 24 hours.