Cut, Fill, Done Right: How Volume Analysis Saves Time and Money
Volume analysis plays a vital role in managing construction projects. It reduces the risk of over-excavation and underestimation, optimising both time and costs.
As-Built Surveys for Highways Projects: What We Capture and Why It Matters
As-built surveys for highways aren’t just admin — they’re your QA, your proof of compliance, and your long-term asset record. Here's what they include and why they matter.
Why Control Networks Matter More Than You Think
Think control points are just nails in the ground? Think again. Discover why control networks are the foundation of accurate setting out, risk reduction, and build success.
Choosing the Right Survey Partner: What to Ask Before You Break Ground
Before you break ground, are you sure what lies beneath? From PAS 128 standards to survey turnaround times, here’s what every PM should ask before hiring a utility surveyor.
How the Building Safety Act Affects Site Engineers and Surveyors (Even on Non-Residential Projects)
Think the Building Safety Act only applies to high-rise flats? Think again. Here's what site engineers, surveyors, and contractors need to know—and how to stay compliant on infrastructure and highways projects.
What We Do With Your Survey Data: From Field to Final Deliverable
What happens after a land survey? From topographical data to clean CAD drawings, here’s how AKN Engineering processes survey data for construction and highways projects across the UK.
5 Major Setting Out Challenges on Construction Sites – Site Survey Accuracy
From access issues to last-minute CAD updates, here are five real-world challenges site engineers face during setting out — and how to avoid them on your next project.
Topographical + Utility Surveys = Seamless Site Start
Design and build only work when you know what’s above and below ground. Discover how topo + utility surveys lead to smarter, safer project starts.
The Complete As-Built Survey Checklist for Contractors in East Anglia
Not sure when to request a topographic survey or a volume As-built surveys aren’t just a handover box to tick — they’re proof of what was built and when. Here’s how we get it right, every time.
Topographic Surveys vs Volume Surveys: What’s the Difference?
Not sure when to request a topographic survey or a volume calculation? This post breaks it down in simple terms. Perfect for site engineers, QSs, and PMs managing highways or infrastructure jobs.
Avoiding Utility Strikes: How a Survey Can Save Thousands
Underground cables and pipes can turn into costly delays. Learn how a PAS 128 utility survey helps avoid strikes, improve safety, and keep your site moving.
What Are Utilities Surveys and Why Do They Matter on Construction Projects?
Before you break ground, what’s under the surface? Learn how utilities surveys help prevent delays, reduce risk, and improve planning on highways and building projects.
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid in Site Engineering
Mistakes in site engineering can delay projects and increase costs. This guide breaks down the top 5 issues we see on site—and how to avoid them with clear, practical steps. A must-read for project managers, engineers, and construction students.
CICES vs. RICS in Surveying and Construction: Which Is Right For Your Career?
IWhen planning your career path in surveying and construction, two major professional organisations tend to come up in conversation - CICES and RICS. Based on our experience working across numerous construction projects in Hertfordshire and surrounding counties, we've put together this straightforward comparison to help you decide which membership would benefit you most.
How Does Weather Affect Site Engineering Work and How Is It Managed?
In UK construction, weather can disrupt timelines, safety, and budgets. Learn how site engineers monitor, record, and manage weather-related risks with NEC4 strategies.
Navigating New Trends and Regulations in the UK Construction Industry
From procurement reform to tech and compliance, UK construction in 2025 is evolving fast. Here’s what project managers and engineers need to know to stay ahead.
The Value of Training and Developing Our Staff at AKN Engineering
At AKN Engineering, we believe our people are our biggest asset. This blog explores how we train graduate engineers, invest in PAYE staff, and develop talent from within to deliver reliable, high-quality results for our clients—while creating real opportunities in the construction industry.
Common Mistakes in Setting Out – And How to Avoid Them
Setting out errors can cost project managers time, money, and trust. In this practical guide from AKN Engineering, based in Hertfordshire, we break down the most common setting out mistakes—and how to avoid them. Whether you’re overseeing groundwork or final finishes, this article will help you spot red flags early and keep your project on track.
Setting Out Methods in Construction: A Practical Guide for Highways and Infrastructure Projects
Setting out in construction is essential for accurate project delivery. This guide covers 8 key methods used on UK highways, from baseline to GPS, with insights from AKN Engineering Ltd…
What Safety Measures Should Be in Place When Setting Out for Construction?
Setting out is one of the most critical stages in any construction project—so getting safety right is non-negotiable. From PPE and training to drone surveys and risk assessments, this guide outlines the essential safety measures UK construction teams need to protect their people and projects.