Property and planning map service
Produce site plans, boundary maps and area analysis for agents, developers and landowners.
- £200-2k
- Side hustle
- Online
Estimates for a small start in the UK, not guarantees.
Official data
38,095 UK companies in this field, 28% registered in the last 2 years
SIC 71129 “Other engineering activities”. Source: Companies House, November 2026.
What it is
A focused mapping service for the property world: location and site plans, boundary maps, and simple analysis such as nearby amenities, flood risk or land use. Clients use them for planning applications, sales brochures and land deals.
Your first three steps
- Learn what a planning application needs for location and site plans by reading your local council's validation guidance
- Create a price list and sample plans, then show them to local architects, agents and planning consultants
- Offer a quick turnaround on a first few jobs at a fair price and ask for referrals
Who pays
Estate agents, land agents, small developers, architects, planning consultants and rural landowners.
How it makes money
Fixed fee per map or per pack, such as a set price for a planning location plan, with higher fees for custom analysis or large estates.
Skills that help
- GIS or mapping software
- Understanding of planning and property terms
- Attention to accuracy
- Client communication
Watch out for
- Licensing of base mapping: check the terms for any Ordnance Survey data and whether your software or data licence covers commercial plans
- Accuracy matters because errors can delay applications, so build in checks and consider professional indemnity insurance
- Plans for legal boundaries or surveys may need a qualified surveyor, so be clear about what you do and don't provide
- Check whether your terms limit your liability
🔒 Full research report for UK
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a property mapping service?
Startup costs are typically around £200 to £2,000, depending on the mapping software and data licences you need. These are estimates. Check that your software or data licence covers commercial plans.
How much can a property and planning map service earn?
Monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £2,500, depending on how many agents, developers and landowners you work for. These are estimates only, and the business can be run online.
What should I check before selling property maps?
Check the licensing terms for any Ordnance Survey data used. Accuracy matters, so build in checks and consider professional indemnity insurance. Plans for legal boundaries or surveys may need a qualified surveyor, and check whether your terms limit liability.
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