Having taken the measurements of the site, you will need to add in a number of other pieces of information for your survey, such as the location of drains, manholes, ventilation pipes and septic tank covers. Fix their position, using triangulation if necessary, and make a note of their exact size and angle.

You should also ensure that all the 'hard' elements of the garden, such as walls, patios, paths, pools, greenhouse and pergolas have been included in your plan. Indicate the materials these structures are made from and their condition. Add in any long-lived plants, identifying them where possible. Note the condition of the lawn, perennial plants, trees, shrubs and hedges and work out how much pruning or renovation is needed; try to make an estimate of the current and eventual sizes of the trees and shrubs. This information will help you to decide which plants to remove or reposition, and which hard elements to keep or modify.