Understanding BIM Levels of Development (LOD)

BIM Levels of Development (LOD) Explained

# What is LOD?

Level of Development (LOD) defines how much detail and reliability BIM elements contain. Higher LOD means more geometric accuracy, more information attached, and higher cost to produce.

# LOD Specifications

LOD 100 - Conceptual
- Approximate geometry
- Placeholder elements
- Area/volume only
- Use: Planning, feasibility

LOD 200 - Schematic Design
- Approximate size, shape, location
- Generic placeholders
- Non-specific systems
- Use: Design development

LOD 300 - Design Development
- Accurate geometry
- Specific element types
- Correct orientation
- Use: Construction documents

LOD 350 - Construction Documentation
- LOD 300 + coordination
- Supports, attachments
- Interference detection
- Use: Coordination, clash detection

LOD 400 - Fabrication
- Detailed for fabrication
- Assembly information
- Connection details
- Use: Shop drawings, prefab

LOD 500 - As-Built
- Field-verified
- Maintenance data
- Operational information
- Use: Facility management

# LOD for Scan-to-BIM

Industry reference: BIM modeling costs (by your team or a BIM provider):

| LOD | Geometry | Information | Typical Modeling Cost |
|-----|----------|-------------|----------------------|
| 200 | ±50mm | Type only | $0.08-0.12/sqft |
| 300 | ±25mm | Size + type | $0.12-0.18/sqft |
| 350 | ±15mm | + Supports | $0.15-0.22/sqft |
| 400 | ±10mm | + Details | $0.20-0.30/sqft |

# Choosing the Right LOD

LOD 200: Visualization, space planning
LOD 300: Design coordination, renovations
LOD 350: MEP coordination, clash detection
LOD 400: Fabrication, detailed coordination
LOD 500: FM/O&M, asset management