An RGB drone survey (a measured survey) produces orthophotos (calibrated aerial photographs), scaled plans and colourised point clouds. It is the reference tool for documenting the existing state of a plot, a roof or a building site with metric data that can be used directly in CAD and GIS software.
What is an RGB measured survey?
Unlike visual inspections or traditional photography, a measured survey uses photogrammetry to assign precise coordinates to every pixel. The result is a metrically correct product: you can take measurements (distances, areas, volumes) directly from it, with an accuracy that matches the one stated in the offer.
The term RGB refers to capture in natural colour (red, green, blue) — as opposed to thermal (infrared) or multispectral sensors.
Typical deliverables
- Georeferenced orthophoto (GeoTIFF): aerial photo corrected for distortion, usable as a GIS or CAD base map
- RGB point cloud (LAS/LAZ): colourised 3D cloud, for extracting profiles or modelling
- DTM / DSM (GeoTIFF): digital terrain and surface models, for volume calculations and contour lines
- DWG/DXF plan: metric vector plan for direct integration into AutoCAD or ArchiCAD
- Accuracy report: file stating the root mean square errors (RMSE) on the control points
Packages and prices
| Package | Price | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| RGB Essential | CHF 500 | Documentation, presentation, site overview (area up to 2,000 m²) |
| RGB Pro | CHF 1,000 | Technical plans, topographic studies, design files |
| RGB Project | On quote | Large areas, land and industrial sites: quarries, industrial zones, large construction sites |
Files delivered within 3 days (Essential) or 4 days (Pro). CAD, GIS and raster formats included.
Survey accuracy
- Essential and Pro packages: accuracy up to ±3 cm depending on the package
- Project package: ground control points (GCPs) and certified centimetre-level accuracy
- Ground sample distance (GSD): 1–5 cm depending on flight height and camera
Use cases
Roof and façade documentation
Before renovation work, an RGB survey produces an exact plan of the surfaces to be treated. Actual area, slopes, protruding elements, position of drains: everything can be measured without scaffolding.
Site monitoring and condition surveys
Combined with repeat flights, an RGB survey lets you compare actual progress against the schedule, calculate cut-and-fill volumes, and document the state of the site at every stage to avoid disputes.
Topography and land surveying
For plots where no recent topographic survey exists, the drone produces a complete survey in a single morning. Contour lines, cross-sections, volume calculations: the data can be used directly by civil engineers.
Plans for building permits
The georeferenced orthophoto serves as a base map for building permit applications, in line with the requirements of cantonal planning departments.
RGB survey vs other methods
| Criterion | RGB drone survey | Ground-based total station | Terrestrial LiDAR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Area covered | Roof + full terrain | Ground access only | Ground access only |
| Time on site | 1–3h | 1–2 days | 4–8h |
| Cost | CHF 500–1,000 | CHF 1,500–4,000 | CHF 5,000–15,000 |
| Delivery | 3–4 days | 3–7 days | 5–10 days |
Areas we serve in French-speaking Switzerland
Inspection Drone carries out drone surveys throughout French-speaking Switzerland:
- Lausanne and the canton of Vaud
- Geneva
- Fribourg
- Neuchâtel
- Valais
- Jura
Read also: drone or surveyor? Choosing the right survey method.
Read also: volume calculation by drone: stockpiles, gravel pits and earthworks.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a drone survey cost?
RGB Essential CHF 500 (area up to 2,000 m²); RGB Pro CHF 1,000; RGB Project on quote (large areas, land and industrial sites).
How accurate is it?
Up to ±3 cm depending on the package. The Project package adds ground control points (GCPs) for certified centimetre-level accuracy. Ground resolution of 1 to 5 cm.
What do you deliver, and how soon?
GeoTIFF orthophoto, LAS/LAZ point cloud, digital terrain and surface models, DWG/DXF plan and accuracy report. Delivery within 3 days (Essential) or 4 days (Pro).
Request a quote
Area to cover, required accuracy, delivery formats: we prepare an offer tailored to your project within 24h. FOCA A1/A2/A3 certified pilots, partner surveyors for projects that need official certification.
Inspection Drone — FOCA A1/A2/A3 certified · French-speaking Switzerland · +41 76 581 60 78