LOD — Level of Detail — defines how precisely each element is represented in a BIM model. When your BIM model starts from a Matterport or LiDAR scan, the LOD you specify determines what gets modeled, at what accuracy, and at what cost.
This post is for AEC teams — architects, engineers, and owners — who need to specify or evaluate a scan-to-BIM deliverable and want to understand what LOD 200, 300, and 350 actually mean in practice.
What is LOD in BIM, and why does it matter for scan-to-BIM work?
LOD is the specification framework that defines what information a BIM element contains. The BIMForum LOD specification is the most widely used reference in US practice. For existing conditions work, LOD defines how much of what the scan captured gets modeled — and how precisely.
Specifying the wrong LOD is one of the most common mistakes in scan-to-BIM procurement. Too low, and the model won’t support the design work it’s meant to feed. Too high, and you’re paying for precision the project doesn’t need.
What does LOD 200 mean for an existing conditions model?
LOD 200 models building elements at approximate geometry — the right general size, shape, and location, without the specific dimensions more detailed levels require. Walls are modeled as volumes. Columns are placed at approximate locations. System elements may be shown as placeholders.
LOD 200 is appropriate for schematic design: confirming the building footprint, understanding the general layout, making early design decisions. It’s faster to produce and less expensive than higher LOD levels.
What does LOD 300 mean for an existing conditions model?
LOD 300 models specific geometry: walls at actual thickness, columns at confirmed locations, floors and ceilings at measured heights, door and window openings at actual dimensions. The model is accurate enough to coordinate against — to align structural, mechanical, and architectural work in the same model space.
LOD 300 is the most commonly specified level for renovation documentation in commercial AEC work. For most Michigan commercial renovations — tenant fit-outs, building repositioning, MEP upgrades — LOD 300 is where the deliverable needs to land.
What does LOD 350 mean, and when do you need it?
LOD 350 adds the geometry needed for coordination interfaces between building systems — how a duct run connects to a structural opening, how a pipe penetrates a wall. It’s required when multiple disciplines coordinate from the same model and need to know how elements relate spatially, not just that they exist.
LOD 350 is specified on complex multi-system renovation projects, healthcare facility work, and projects where clash detection is a formal requirement. If your project doesn’t involve formal clash detection or multi-discipline model coordination, LOD 350 is likely more than the work requires.
How does scan accuracy affect which LOD in BIM work is achievable?
Matterport captures at ±1% spatial accuracy — sufficient to support LOD 200 and LOD 300 for most commercial renovation work. For LOD 350 or projects with tight construction tolerances, terrestrial LiDAR provides higher point density and ±2–5mm accuracy. P3D offers both — confirm the LOD at project kickoff so the capture equipment matches the deliverable you’re ordering.
Matching LOD in BIM to project phase
A common pattern on renovation projects is ordering LOD 200 at the programming phase, then LOD 300 once the project moves into schematic design — using the same underlying scan data for both. This costs less than commissioning a full LOD 300 field survey upfront, since the lower-detail model already serves its purpose during early planning.
Where LOD specifications have limits
LOD specifies modeled geometry — it doesn’t guarantee that the building element performs as modeled. A wall shown at 6″ thickness at LOD 300 reflects the measured dimension, not the assembly or thermal performance. LOD is a documentation specification, not a performance specification. Elements not visible during the scan also cannot be modeled regardless of LOD.
What LOD is standard for commercial renovation in Michigan?
LOD 300 is the most common specification — it supports design development, permit documentation, and multi-discipline coordination. LOD 200 is appropriate for early programming. LOD 350 is reserved for complex multi-system projects with formal clash detection requirements.
Is there a LOD 400 from reality capture?
LOD 400 is reserved for fabrication-level detail and is rarely ordered for existing conditions scan work. It requires sub-millimeter accuracy throughout — not practical from Matterport capture and rarely necessary for renovation documentation. Discuss with P3D if a project requirement seems to call for it.
Does the LOD apply to all elements equally?
Not necessarily. It’s common to specify different LOD levels for different element categories — structural at LOD 300 while mechanical systems are shown at LOD 200 as placeholders. This hybrid specification is normal and should be documented in the modeling brief.
Can P3D help me determine which LOD is right for my project?
Yes. Describe the design work the model needs to support and P3D will recommend the appropriate LOD based on project phase, discipline requirements, and building complexity — including a timeline and cost range so you can confirm fit before ordering.
How does LOD affect delivery timeline?
LOD 200 for a 20,000 sq ft floor plate typically delivers in 5–8 business days. LOD 300 for the same building typically delivers in 10–15 business days. LOD 350 adds additional time depending on system complexity. Build these timelines into your design schedule before ordering.
Related reading:
One Scan. Five Deliverables. Here’s What Each One Is Used For.
Scan-to-BIM Workflows: What Architects Need to Know
Matterport Tour vs Point Cloud: What’s the Difference?
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