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Have you ever wondered how to ensure a land survey goes smoothly? Whether you’re a homeowner clarifying boundaries, a contractor managing a construction site, or a developer adhering to regulations, preparing for a land survey is crucial. It helps save time and avoid disputes. It also ensures accurate results.

Here are 5 essential tips to help you get ready for your upcoming survey:

Understand the Type of Land Survey You Need:

Land surveys are not one-size-fits-all. Knowing the exact type of survey you need is the first step toward a successful project. Different surveys serve distinct purposes.

For example, a boundary survey is used to define property lines. A construction site survey maps elevation. An ALTA/NSPS survey may be required for lender purposes. The type of survey determines the documentation, duration, and equipment needed.

Example: A builder needed precise data for a construction site survey. They chose a topographic survey to map elevations. Without this knowledge, they might have requested a boundary survey. This could have led to delays and extra costs.

Consult your surveyor to clarify your specific requirements. This ensures the survey aligns with your goals.

Gather and Provide Necessary Documents:

A surveyor’s efficiency depends on the documents you provide. These records allow them to verify information and establish accurate boundaries. Common documents include:

• Property title deeds.
• Previous survey reports.
• Certified corner records or plat maps.

The more thorough your documentation, the easier it will be for your surveyor to complete the job. It will also help ensure accuracy.

Example: A property owner had to resolve a boundary dispute. They found an old survey plat outlining the property lines. This saved time and prevented the need for extra field measurements.

Double-check that you have all the necessary records. This will help avoid delays during the survey process.

Inform Your Neighbors in Advance:

Good communication with neighbors is often overlooked. However, it is an important part of survey preparation.

Surveys may reveal encroachments, such as a fence or driveway on your land. These encroachments can lead to disputes. Informing your neighbors beforehand ensures transparency. It can reduce the risk of surprise confrontations during the survey.

Example: A homeowner conducted a boundary survey. They discovered a neighbor’s shed was encroaching slightly on their land. Because they had already informed their neighbor, they were able to address the issue calmly. They reached a mutual agreement without conflict.

This step not only shows courtesy but can also prevent unnecessary disputes.

Ensure Easy Access for the Surveyor:

Surveyors need clear access to your property to perform their work. Both physical access and a safe, obstruction-free environment are important.

If your property is in a gated community, provide the surveyor with the necessary codes or keys. Remove any hazards or overgrown vegetation that might obstruct the surveyor’s equipment.

Example: A commercial property owner cleared debris from a construction site before the survey team arrived. This allowed the surveyors to complete their work more quickly. It also reduced errors caused by obstructed views.

Taking the time to clean and organize your property can make the process smoother and more efficient.

Hire a Qualified Professional:

The most important step in preparing for a land survey is hiring the right professional.

Experienced and licensed surveyors bring the expertise needed to avoid challenges and ensure accuracy. Research potential surveyors. Verify their credentials and read reviews or testimonials.

Example: A developer hired an experienced firm to perform construction site surveying for a large-scale project. The surveyors provided accurate results and helped the developer stay compliant with local regulations. This avoided potential fines.

Hiring a skilled surveyor ensures your project is completed on time and meets the highest standards of accuracy.

Conclusion:

Preparing for a land survey is essential for property owners, contractors, and developers. By understanding the type of survey you need, gathering necessary documents, informing neighbors, ensuring access, and hiring a professional, you set the stage for a smooth survey process.

Whether you’re clarifying boundaries for personal reasons or managing construction site surveying for a large project, SGIS is your trusted partner. Contact us today to learn more about our professional land surveying services and how we can help you meet your goals.