Welcome to the UK Map Centre FAQ section | your go-to guide for everything related to mapping, planning, and professional map use. Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about our products and services, including the types of maps we offer, licensing information, digital and printed formats, delivery times, and support options. Whether you’re ordering a planning map for a project, exploring Ordnance Survey data, or looking for custom mapping solutions, this page will help you find the right information quickly and confidently.
FAQs
FAQ Page
General Mapping Questions
- What types of maps does the UK Map Centre offer?
- What is an OS map?
- What is the difference between OS maps and planning maps?
- Can I order a custom map centred on my chosen location?
- How accurate are the maps provided by the UK Map Centre?
- Do your maps cover all areas of the UK?
Planning & Professional Use
- Which maps do I need for a planning application?
- Are your planning maps suitable for submission to local authorities?
- Can I use your maps for land registry or boundary applications?
- Do you offer scaled maps (e.g. 1:1250, 1:2500, 1:500) for architects or developers?
- How do I select the correct map scale for my project?
Ordering & File Formats
- How do I order a site plan or location map online?
- What file formats do you supply (PDF, DWG, DXF, etc.)?
- Can I edit the map once I receive it?
- Can I order printed maps as well as digital copies?
- How quickly will I receive my digital map order?
- How much does an OS map cost?
- Can I get OS maps for free?
Licensing & Usage
- Do I need a licence to use Ordnance Survey data?
- How long does my map licence last?
- Can I share my purchased map with others or reuse it for another project?
- Are your maps compliant with Ordnance Survey copyright terms?
Delivery & Support
- How are printed maps delivered?
- What should I do if I haven’t received my order?
- Can I get a refund or replacement if there’s an issue with my map?
- How do I contact the UK Map Centre for technical support?
Specialist Services
- Do you offer aerial imagery or satellite maps?
- Can I get contour or topographic data for survey work?
- Do you provide map data for GIS software?
- Can UK Map Centre create bespoke mapping products for my business?
- How do I get an OS map of my property?
Home Page
- What scale map do I need?
A common question since the site offers multiple scales (1:500, 1:1250, 1:2500, etc.)
- Can I get an OS map instantly online / how fast is delivery?
You can clarify turnaround times and formats, highlighting key USPs for the site
- What formats are available and what do the file types mean?
Since there are many options and might be confusion around which one is right for them
- Are the maps council / land-registry / utility compliant?
Visitors doing planning/building will want assurance that the maps meet the required standards
- What does being an OS Premium Partner mean and is the mapping official/licensed?
Gives credibility
- How much does it cost?
A general answer about pricing structure, and perhaps “starting from” or “price depends on scale/area” would be good since these vary
- What area does your mapping cover?
Clarify coverage (Great Britain / England, Scotland, Wales)
- How do I know which map sheet number I need / how to find my location on a map?
Helps users who don’t know their OS sheet number or grid reference
- Can I get custom or bespoke maps?
Highlight that even if users can’t find the right map in the existing products you might still be able to help them get the right map for their needs
- How are OS map updates handled / how current is the map data?
Good for planning professionals and other users to know currency of data
- What rights/licence do I have when I buy a map? Can I print/share it?
Important for users thinking about usage rights, copyright etc.
- What if I have a query or need support?
Mention contact methods, typical response times, office hours, etc.
- What payment methods do you accept and how secure is checkout?
Good for transparency and trust
- Can I get a sample or preview before purchase?
Option to reassure users before committing
What is your return / refund policy?