What Type of Land Survey Do You Need?


There are many types and categories of land surveys. Each survey provides distinctive information; therefore they require different steps to complete them. Attaining the proper survey for your needs will save you time and money. Here is a description of some common surveys we provide and scenarios of when you need them. To see a full list of our services, please visit our Services page.

Boundary Survey

A boundary survey, as the name describes, is the identification of the property’s boundaries. If you are putting up a new fence, you will likely need a boundary survey. Many homeowners associations and fence companies require residents to attain a boundary survey before they put up a new fence.
Another common reason why people attain a boundary survey is to clarify the border of their property or their neighbor’s property. When conducting a boundary survey, a surveyor will locate the recorded survey markers and remark the property corners with 24inch re-bars with a surveyor’s cap.

Elevation Certificate

This is an important survey that documents the elevation of your home or business. If you are in a flood zone, many banks and title companies require that you attain an elevation certificate to solidify a mortgage.  To get flood insurance, you will be required to get an elevation certificate from a professional, certified land surveyor.

Plot Plan

To make additions or improvements to your property, you often will need to attain a building permit from your local government or homeowners association. To get a building permit; you will have to provide a plot plan. A plot plan is a drawing that shows all the major features and structures on a piece of property.  This includes decks, pools, buildings, barns and major landscaping features. After your plot plan is approved, you can begin to make changes to your property.

ALTA Survey

An ALTA Survey is a very comprehensive survey that is typically used when exchanging commercial real-estate. Title companies often require ALTA surveys to be conducted to validate that there are no encroachments, boundary issues or unidentified easements. This provides protection and avoids risk when commercial selling property.

Plats

Platting simply divides a large piece of land into smaller parcels. Normally, these smaller parcels are split to be sold separately. For example, a home builder would use this survey to construct a new subdivision. The plat illustrates the new parcels and the distances and bearings between the property corners. New roads are also displayed on the plat and prove that each new parcel has access to a public road without trespassing on private property.