Service reference · Updated 7 August 2026
Drone mapping & 3D modelling
Precision 2D orthomosaic maps, digital terrain models, digital surface models and photorealistic 3D point clouds — georeferenced and delivered in the formats your software already reads.
Short answer
Image Surveys Limited (CAA Operator ID GBR-OP-K3GKP2JCP5DJ) delivers centimetre-accurate photogrammetric mapping for construction, land management, planning and infrastructure across Merseyside, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Cheshire and North Wales, using a DJI Matrice 4E with RTK positioning.
Outputs include 2D orthomosaics (GeoTIFF), digital terrain models (DTM), digital surface models (DSM), 3D point clouds and mesh models, slope angles, cross-section profiles and volume calculations. Export in OBJ, B3DMS, DXF, LAS and PDF. Fully compatible with ArcGIS, AutoCAD, Revit and BIM workflows. Horizontal accuracy of 2–3 cm achievable with surveyed ground control points.
Why use a drone for mapping?
- Covers large areas quickly compared to traditional ground survey methods
- Centimetre-level accuracy using georeferenced ground control points
- No disruption to site operations during data capture
- 3D models compatible with BIM workflows, clash detection and digital twins
- Enables ongoing progress monitoring without repeated manual site visits
- Cost-effective alternative to manned aerial survey for most project scales
What we deliver
- 2D orthomosaic maps in GeoTIFF format (1–2 cm GSD typical)
- Digital elevation models (DEM) and digital terrain models (DTM)
- Digital surface models (DSM) — first-return surface including trees and structures
- Photorealistic 3D point clouds and mesh models
- Export in OBJ, B3DMS, DXF, LAS and PDF formats
- Slope angles and cross section profiles
- Volume calculations and cut/fill analysis reports
- Data georeferenced to OS control or client-supplied benchmarks
Frequently asked questions
How accurate are your maps and 3D models?
Using surveyed ground control points we routinely achieve horizontal accuracy of 2–3 cm. We provide accuracy reports and root-mean-square error (RMSE) statistics to confirm your project specifications are met.
What formats do you supply data in?
We deliver in GeoTIFF, DXF, OBJ, B3DMS, LAS/LAZ and PDF. If you use a specific GIS platform, CAD package or BIM software, tell us at scoping and we will confirm compatibility before we fly.
Do I need to provide ground control points?
We can establish GCPs ourselves or work with your existing surveyed control network, depending on the accuracy requirement and site conditions. We discuss the best approach at the scoping stage.
What is the difference between DTM and DSM?
A Digital Terrain Model (DTM) represents the bare-earth ground surface with vegetation and structures removed. A Digital Surface Model (DSM) is a first-return model that includes the tops of trees, buildings and other above-ground features. Both are delivered as standard for most mapping projects.
Can the data be used in BIM or CAD workflows?
Yes. We deliver in DXF and DWG for CAD, and our point clouds and meshes are compatible with Autodesk Revit, AutoCAD Civil 3D, ArcGIS and other major platforms. Confirm your software at scoping and we will agree the output format before we fly.
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Get a mapping quote
Send us the site boundary and required accuracy specification. We'll confirm format compatibility and provide a fixed written price.