PRICING GUIDE
How Much Does a Setout Survey Cost in Sydney?
Last updated: January 2026
A setout survey in Sydney typically costs $400-$1,500. Simple structures like granny flats or pools cost $400-$600. Standard residential house setouts cost $600-$900. Complex or multi-level buildings cost $900-$1,500 or more. Price depends on building complexity, number of points, and site conditions.
A setout survey ensures your building is constructed in exactly the right position. Getting accurate pricing helps you budget correctly and avoid surprises during your construction project.
This guide breaks down setout survey costs in Sydney for different project types and explains what factors affect the price.
Setout Survey Pricing Table
| Project Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Granny Flat / Small Addition | $400 - $600 |
| Swimming Pool | $400 - $550 |
| Standard House (Single Storey) | $600 - $800 |
| Two-Storey House | $700 - $900 |
| Duplex | $800 - $1,200 |
| Townhouse / Multi-Unit | $1,000 - $1,500+ |
| Commercial Building | $1,200 - $2,500+ |
| Additional Setout Visit | $350 - $500 |
See our pricing page for current rates and package options.
What is a Setout Survey?
A setout survey (also called construction setout or building setout) transfers the building design from paper plans to the physical ground. The surveyor marks exact positions where building corners, walls, and other elements should be constructed.
This ensures your building:
- Is positioned exactly as shown on approved plans
- Meets required setback distances from boundaries
- Is at the correct height (floor level)
- Aligns correctly with existing structures
- Complies with DA/CDC conditions
What Affects Setout Survey Cost?
Building Complexity
Simple rectangular buildings with few corners cost less than complex designs with multiple angles, setbacks, and levels. Each additional corner or point adds to the surveyor's work.
Number of Points
A basic granny flat might need 4-6 setout points. A large house with garage, alfresco, and multiple building lines could need 20+ points. More points = higher cost.
Site Conditions
Steep sites, limited access, or difficult ground conditions increase time and cost. Easy access to a flat site is the cheapest scenario.
Boundary Work Required
If boundary marks need to be located or re-established before setout, this adds cost. Some surveyors include basic boundary checks; others charge separately.
Height Datum
Establishing a height reference point (datum) for floor levels is usually included. Complex level requirements or multiple datums may add cost.
What's Included in a Setout Survey?
A standard setout survey in Sydney typically includes:
- Building corners: Stakes or nails marking each corner position
- Offset pegs: Reference marks if corners fall in excavated areas
- Height datum: A fixed point showing the reference level (RL)
- Setback check: Confirmation of distances to boundaries
- Basic report: Brief documentation of setout positions
What May Cost Extra
- Detailed boundary survey (if marks missing)
- Multiple site visits (different construction stages)
- As-built survey after construction
- Detailed written report with diagrams
- Urgent or after-hours attendance
When Do You Need a Setout Survey?
Timing in Construction
The setout survey should happen:
- After: Site clearing and initial excavation
- Before: Formwork construction or slab pour
- Allow: 2-3 business days lead time for booking
Your builder will coordinate the timing. The setout marks guide where formwork is placed, so they need to be in position before the formwork crew arrives.
Multiple Setouts
Some projects need multiple setout visits:
- Slab setout: Building footprint before slab pour
- Floor setout: Internal walls and features on the slab
- Upper level: Additional floors in multi-storey buildings
- External works: Retaining walls, pools, driveways
Ask about package pricing if multiple visits are needed.
Do I Really Need a Setout Survey?
While not legally mandatory for all projects, a setout survey is strongly recommended because:
- Setback compliance: Sydney councils enforce strict setbacks. Building 50mm over the line can mean demolition
- Builder reliance: Most builders aren't licensed surveyors and shouldn't be positioning buildings near boundaries
- Insurance: If a building is in the wrong position, who pays? Having professional setout protects everyone
- Certification: Building certifiers often require setout documentation
- Cost vs risk: $400-$800 is nothing compared to demolishing or moving a structure
For granny flats with 900mm setbacks, accurate positioning is essential.
Setout vs. Detail Survey: What's the Difference?
These are different surveys for different purposes:
- Detail survey: Done BEFORE design, shows existing site features
- Setout survey: Done DURING construction, marks where to build
You typically need both - the detail survey for your DA application and design, then the setout survey when construction begins.
Get a Setout Quote
Sydney Surveyor Solutions provides fast, accurate setout surveys across Sydney. We work with builders daily and understand construction timing requirements.
For a quote, we need:
- Property address
- Type of building (house, granny flat, pool, etc.)
- Approved plans (PDF)
- Approximate construction date
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a setout survey cost in Sydney?
A setout survey in Sydney typically costs $400-$1,500. Simple setouts like granny flats or pools cost $400-$600. Standard house setouts cost $600-$900. Complex or multi-level buildings cost $900-$1,500+. Prices depend on the number of points, site access, and required accuracy.
What is a setout survey?
A setout survey (also called construction setout or building setout) marks the exact position of a building on the ground before construction begins. The surveyor places stakes or marks showing building corners, ensuring the structure is positioned correctly relative to boundaries and matches approved plans.
Do I need a setout survey for a granny flat?
Yes, a setout survey is recommended for granny flats in Sydney. With strict setback requirements (often 900mm to boundaries), accurate positioning is essential. A setout ensures your granny flat is built in the approved location and complies with DA or CDC conditions. Cost is typically $400-$600.
When should I book a setout survey?
Book your setout survey after excavation is complete but before formwork or slab construction begins. Give your surveyor 2-3 days notice. The builder needs the setout marks to position footings and formwork correctly. Some projects need multiple setouts for different construction stages.
What's included in a setout survey?
A setout survey includes: marking building corners with stakes or nails, establishing height datum (floor level reference), checking setback distances to boundaries, providing offset pegs if corners are excavated, and a brief report confirming setout positions. Some surveyors include boundary confirmation.