As we celebrate 18 years of Seeka let’s explore some of the types of projects we tackle, and the diverse and innovative services we offer that have enabled us to become a trusted name across the southwest.

Over the years we have continually adapted to meet the evolving needs of our clients by utilising a combination of advanced technology and state-of-the-art techniques. Our commitment to delivering high-quality results has helped designers, developers, and contractors to pinpoint the location of buried services effectively. From comprehensive CCTV surveys to detailed mapping of underground utilities, our team is dedicated to providing exceptional service and reliable data that drive successful project outcomes.

CCTV Surveys

At Seeka, our surveyors provide CCTV drainage surveys to assess the condition of pipes, identify connections, locate buried manholes, and detect obstructions. We utilise both push rod and crawler CCTV systems, delivering reports in line with the Manual of Sewer Condition Classification. Additionally, we are experienced in conducting drainage network surveys that meet National Highways standards (DDMS, formerly HADDMS), the most extensive drainage specification in Europe. This involves large-scale projects requiring detailed mapping of both above and below-ground drainage systems using GIS technology. ensuring high-quality, reliable results for complex infrastructure needs. Our recent work on the A30 for Costain where our team surveyed nearly 29 miles of new drainage exemplifies Seeka's ability to manage large, complex projects with exceptional accuracy and reliability.

“Ensuring that the CCTV surveys we produce are to the required standard and accurately reflect the condition of the pipework at the time of survey is something I take great pride in. Combining our traditional survey methods and focus on precision with CCTV inspection equipment means we not only relay the condition of the drainage system to the client, but also that the drainage is accurately mapped and plotted on highly accurate survey drawings”

Lauren C

Sewage Treatment Works (STWs)

These are highly complex sites that require in-depth utility surveys to ensure efficient and safe operations. At Seeka, we specialise in conducting detailed surveys for STWs, mapping out intricate underground networks that include pipelines, manholes, and drainage systems. Our team utilises advanced techniques like the post-processing of GPR data to provide accurate and comprehensive data, essential for maintaining the functionality of these critical infrastructures. By leveraging our years of experience, we help clients navigate the complexities of STWs, ensuring seamless integration with broader utility systems and compliance with industry standards.

“One of the best things about being a utility surveyor is the puzzle solving and lateral thinking required to locate as many services as possible. Sewage Treatment Works put all of investigative abilities to the test and are incredibly rewarding puzzles to solve. Adding post-processed GPR results to our surveys have proved incredibly useful for clients, and helped uncover features such as buried tanks that would be incredibly hard to locate otherwise.”

Sam D

*We consider sewage treatment works surveys to be one of our specialities*

Highways

Utility surveys are essential for road development projects, where precision and safety are critical. At Seeka, we provide comprehensive utility surveys to support the planning and maintenance of highways. Our surveys involve the detection and mapping of underground utilities, such as drainage systems, gas, and electrical lines, ensuring that construction work does not disrupt these essential services. We also manage large-scale surveys with Traffic Management (TM) protocols in place, with an SSSTS certified team, making sure every aspect of the survey runs smoothly and safely. We are very experienced in coordinating multiple subcontractors and managing complex logistics, to minimise disruption and enable smooth operations. Our expertise in working on complex road networks, such as Manadon interchange in Plymouth, ensure that even in what would be considered by many to be high-stress environments, we still continue to produce high-quality, reliable results.

An example of our expertise in managing significant highways projects is our work with organisations such as Highways England and Plymouth City Council. Our surveyors played a key role in the original survey for the Manadon Interchange, a three-tiered junction in Plymouth that the council is now planning to improve by addressing the existing gyratory system. During the original survey, our team worked a combination of day and night shifts to minimise disruption to traffic and local activities, ensuring the project was completed efficiently and with minimal impact. As the project moves forward, our team will conduct an updated survey of the site to provide precise, current data.

“Having worked in construction nearly all my life I have experience from both employee and employer positions, and my job roles have ranged from labourer to project manager. This range of employee experience gives us at Kemp Engineering the necessary tools to work closely with a range of other specialists, such as traffic management teams, to ensure projects are completed on time, with no sacrifice to staff safety or quality of results.”

Andy M

Schools/ Universities

Conducting utility surveys in schools and universities, such as the Penryn Campus of Exeter University where our utilities team have completed two full surveys once in 2008 before completing an upadted version in 2022, requires a heightened focus on safety and professionalism. Our team is fully DBS-checked, ensuring that we meet all safeguarding requirements when working in environments with young people and vulnerable individuals. Safety is at the heart of everything we do, and our surveyors follow strict safe working practices to navigate the often-complex layouts of educational facilities, which may include multiple extensions and older infrastructure. We also take pride in maintaining excellent relationships with both clients and the public, working closely with staff to ensure our work is carried out efficiently and professionally, without disturbing the daily campus activities.

“Working in complex, ever-devloping sites such as a university campus or hospital presents a unique set of challenges. Not only do you have to consider the services that may or may not have been disconnected, removed or built over, you also need to pay extra attention to the members of the public that are around you and ensure you are doing everything possible to create a safe environment for them.”

Lauren K

Town Centres

Utility surveys in town centres are crucial for managing the complex underground networks that support urban infrastructure. At Seeka, we deliver PAS 128-compliant utility surveys in town centres, identifying and mapping utilities like water, gas, and electrical lines. These surveys provide vital data for development, construction, and maintenance projects, helping to avoid costly disruptions. Our team's huge wealth of experience in high-traffic, urban environments as well as high-level training and knowledge ensures that high qualty survey reports are produced which add great meaning to the survey drawing allowing us to provide in depth explanations and reccomendations.

Our team have recently carried out a comprehensive utility survey in Truro, including parts of the A390, and covering areas in Highertown and Victoria Square. Utilising the latest technology, such as the RD8200 for accurate cable and pipe location, and the advanced Stream DP ground-penetrating radar, we are ensuring a thorough and precise survey of the subsurface utilities. Given the busy town centre location, we also coordinated traffic management (TM) to minimise disruption to the public and ensure safe working conditions for our team and road users. This combination of cutting-edge technology and meticulous planning allows us to deliver high-quality, reliable results while maintaining public safety and minimising inconvenience.

“Having worked installing communication cables through busy urban environments I am acutely aware of how many services are present that do not appear on the statutory plans, accurately tracing and mapping busy areas such as town centres is a point of personal pride for me and I enjoy expanding on our survey results within the PAS 128 reports we produce for each project.”

Andrew R

*Seeka Survey Manager Andy, collecting subsurface data with the Stream DP, ground penetrating radar*

MOD Bases

Utility surveys on MOD bases require a high level of security and precision, given the sensitive nature of these sites. At Seeka, we are equipped with the necessary security clearances to conduct thorough utility surveys within these restricted environments. Our team follows strict protocols while mapping and identifying underground utilities, ensuring that critical infrastructure is accurately documented without compromising security. With extensive experience working on MOD sites, we deliver reliable results while adhering to the strict operational standards and confidentiality required by such high-security locations.

“Maintaining the infrastructure of our military bases is of paramount importance to the safety of the country, and due to my former role in the army I am incredibly proud to play a vital role in that process.”

Peter R

Chamber Scanning

Chamber scanning is an essential technique in utility surveys, particularly for accessing confined spaces that require precise measurements and detailed data. At Seeka, we employ advanced laser scanning technology to conduct chamber scans, capturing accurate 3D representations of underground chambers, manholes, and tunnels. This method allows us to identify structural issues, assess the condition of utilities, and create comprehensive 3D models that inform maintenance and planning decisions. By utilising chamber scanning, we provide our clients with high-resolution data that enhances understanding of complex utility networks, ultimately improving the management and safety of underground infrastructure.

*The 3D scanner on an inverted tripod within the chamber*

Laser Scanning and Confined Space Entry

Laser scanners are becoming an essential tool for utility surveyors, particularly for accessing confined spaces that require precise measurements and detailed data but are unsafe for manned entry. At Seeka, we employ advanced laser scanning technology to conduct chamber scans, capturing accurate 3D representations of underground chambers, manholes, and tunnels. This method allows us to identify structural issues, assess the condition of utilities, and create comprehensive 3D models that inform maintenance and planning decisions. By utilising chamber scanning, we provide our clients with high-resolution data that enhances understanding of complex utility networks, ultimately improving the management and safety of underground infrastructure.

“One of the main things I enjoy about working for Kemp Engineering is that we are constantly investigating new ways to use technology, for example we have recently put forward confined space laser scanning to our clients on projects that would traditionally require manned entry, not only to increase worker safety but also to provide more detailed information in these hard to reach areas which can then be revisited without the need to go back to site.”

From Kieran T

3D Modelling

3D modelling is transforming the utility survey industry by offering a detailed and accurate representation of underground infrastructure. Through the use of advanced surveying techniques like ground-penetrating radar and electromagnetic detection, data is collected and converted into a 3D model that shows the precise location and depth of utilities such as gas, water, and electrical lines. These models enable surveyors and engineers to visualise complex utility networks, reducing the risk of accidental damage during excavation and construction. By improving accuracy and enhancing communication between teams, 3D modelling also aids in project planning, allowing for more informed decision-making and minimising costly delays or rework.

“Developing how utility surveys are produced in-house to suit clients needs is incredibly rewarding for me. From bespoke layering structures to the implementation of full 3D modelling, I enjoy the challenge of making sure the deliverables we produce are exactly suited to our clients needs.”

Aaron M

Our team carry out a range of 3D modelling work one of which being the Camborne Life Cycle. This 3D modelling example showcases the utility survey work we carried out for a network of cycleways and pathways designed to connect the town to the surrounding countryside. Our utility surveys ensured that all underground services were accurately mapped, preventing any potential conflicts with existing infrastructure. The 3D models provided a clear visualisation of the utility networks, which allowed for precise planning and a seamless integration of the new pathways, ultimately enhancing connectivity and promoting sustainable transport throughout the area

*A 3D model of Camborne’s subsurface utility network*

As we move forward, Seeka remains strong in our mission to deliver excellence in utility surveys across the southwest. Our 18 years of experience have equipped us with the knowledge and skills to tackle even the most complex challenges in the field. We are excited to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation while maintaining the high standards our clients expect. If any of these services stand out to you for an upcoming project get in contact with our team on 01209 214687.

Seeka’s Expertise in Utility Surveys: Exploring some of what we do.