Preliminary site investigations
The term ‘desk study’ or ‘desktop study’ refers to a study that is carried out purely through research, rather than physical investigations, that is, it can be done sitting at a desk. Desktop studies can provide an initial understanding of a subject or situation, identify potential risks and inform the detail, scope and methodology of subsequent investigations.
On building design and construction projects, the term ‘desktop study’ is often used in relation to preliminary site investigations, referring to the process of gathering background information about site-specific characteristics that will need to be considered during planning, design and construction, or issues that may merit more detailed physical investigations, such as site surveys.
Local authorities often require that a desk study is carried out as part of the planning or building regulations approval process.
Approved Document C of the Building Regulations defines desk studies as, ‘A review of the historical, geological and environmental information about the site’ and describes it as being ‘essential’. Desk studies might also be carried out as the starting point for assessing site lines, local context (such as architectural character, landscape, and so on), archaeology (such as the risk of uncovering archaeological remains, unexploded bombs, and so on), rights of way and other easements, the likely presence of solid and liquid contaminants, site ecology, and so on.
A thorough desk study:
- Provides an initial understanding of the characteristics of an area or site.
- Provides early identification of site characteristics and potential risks so they can be more effectively managed.
- Informs the detail, scope and methodology of subsequent investigations.
- May help avoid undertaking unnecessary, expensive or intrusive investigations.
The most common sources of information that are researched as part of a desk study include:
OS maps, including historical maps can offer information about:
- Changes in potential landslide areas.
- Changes in topography, stream and river courses.
- Coastal erosion.
- Concealed mine shafts.
- Disused quarries and in-filled ponds.
- Drainage.
- Former uses of the site.
- Old clay, gravel and sand pits.
Geological maps can provide an indication of the likely ground conditions and whether, for instance, there is any risk of subsidence or shear.
Aerial photographic records and Google maps provide useful information that can help identify or confirm historical site usage, hidden foundations, changes of topography and river course, and so on.
Services records can help locate hidden services such as; electricity cables, drainage, telephone cables, and so on.
Existing client information may exist from previous investigations, estate record drawings, and so on.
Preliminary site investigations will typically be followed by more detailed physical investigations to assess areas where more information is required, or where there are particular concerns. For more information see: Site investigations.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Archaeology and construction.
- Building archaeology.
- Building survey.
- Development appraisal.
- Ground conditions.
- Insitu testing of soils.
- Laser scanning.
- Pre construction information.
- Site appraisal.
- Site investigation.
- Site investigation information.
- Site surveys.
- Soil report.
- Soil survey.
- Solid and liquid contaminants site risk assessments.
- Walkover survey.
Featured articles and news
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.