Laser servicing & calibration

Calibration of a laser level is making sure the laser is auto-levelling within its listed accuracy tolerance (e.g. ±1.5mm @ 20m). Lots of lasers come fully calibrated when you buy them — but not always.

When we calibrate, we make sure each axis of the laser (often shown as X and Y on top of the unit) is consistently equal/level and within tolerance. We use a real-life test method rather than collimators that simulate the process. To make sure your laser is giving accurate levels when it auto-levels, it’s worth checking the calibration regularly.

Doing a calibration check at home is straightforward — about a 10-minute job, but worth getting right because any inaccuracy compounds across distance.

The process involves checking the two axes of the laser against themselves: comparing the level of the X axis on each side, then doing the Y axis the same way.

Use our free online calibration checker — it walks you through it step-by-step, does the maths for you, and emails you a written report. Or call us on 1800 769 858 and we’ll talk you through it.

Lasers drift outside tolerance over time with normal use, but several other things speed it up:

Drops & falls are the biggest cause. Always make sure your laser is properly secured to its tripod, jam pole or wall bracket — lasers take internal damage from height, no matter how well built they are.

We always recommend an at-home calibration check after any drop, as the bare minimum — and sending it in for a full check-over is even better.

Pendulum-levelling lasers often sound an alarm when moved with the pendulum unlocked — that’s because they lose calibration if moved too aggressively while the pendulum’s free. Always lock the pendulum before moving them. Electronic-levelling lasers are less prone to this because they level via sensors, which is partly why they cost more.

Occasionally lasers take heavy enough damage that they won’t level consistently — the laser shows a different level every time it’s moved. In those cases the laser usually can’t be repaired or recalibrated, and replacement is the better option.

RedBack, UNILEVEL, Topcon, Bosch, Stabila, Pro Shot, Sokkia, Imex, Powerline, David White, Geo Fennel, Johnson Level, BeeLine, Leica Lino, Stanley, RoboToolz, PLS, Lufkin, Fukuda, General, Laisai, Futtura, DuraMax, Swiss Level, Leica Rugby, DeWalt, Spectra Precision, Hilti, CMI Lasers, Spot-on, Lasertec, Hauda, QBL, Trimble, BMI — and many more.

Not every laser is built to be recalibrated. Some brands or models don’t have an adjustment mechanism. Some don’t publish calibration procedures, forcing you to send the laser back to them at premium prices. Call 1800 769 858 first to confirm we can service yours.

RedBack lasers are built to be easy to calibrate — many local calibration businesses already have the tools to service our gear, and we carry spares for most models.

We provide repairs, servicing and calibration for all types of laser levels — plumbers’ lasers, pipe lasers, dumpy levels, rotary lasers, cross line lasers, tile lasers, green lasers, construction lasers and more. We also stock a full range of laser levels and can organise a replacement if needed.

We can repair physical drop damage, replace failed or worn components, calibrate, and certify.

All work is guaranteed and we quote before any repair work goes ahead. Items sent in for simple calibration won’t be quoted first unless the job exceeds $160 plus GST.

Only if a contract or jobsite specifically requires one. NATA-traceable certificates document a chain of measurement back to national standards. For everyday use, a standard calibration certificate from an experienced laser specialist is fine.

If you do need NATA traceability, mention it when you book the service so we can flag it appropriately.