Many of these topics have been addressed in prior blogs and can be found in our ebooks in great detail. However, the purpose of this article is to address commonly asked questions and give a brief answer to each.
What is Land Surveying?
Land surveying is the technique of accurately determining the three-dimensional location of features and the distances and angles between them. These locations are then used to establish boundaries for land ownership and to create a map of the land and its features.
How much will my survey cost, and why?
There are many situations contributing to the process of performing a survey. These factors include the size of the land, the terrain, the amount of features needed to be located, and the scope of services required, just to name a few. To ensure an accurate price quote, these and other factors are reviewed and taken into consideration. Also, let us know what services you expect or need. Ask questions!
Does a survey expire?
Surveys are used in the preparation of legal documents such as deeds, easements, agreements, the exchange of land, etc. These records may be used to transfer land for many years and are often the only source for finding the shape of the boundary.
Typically, these recorded maps are used by current surveyors to retrace the boundary lines. Also, many people will only have their property surveyed once, but they may refer back to this document in the future. For these reasons, surveys are good for a long time, if not forever.
With that being said, some lenders will require a current survey before issuing you any financing. Thus, although surveys do not theoretically expire, you may be required to update an already existing survey.
Why do I need a survey?
The largest investment you will most likely make is in your home or land. A survey of your property should be obtained to protect this investment. This will ensure you are buying what you are expecting to buy, or that you are getting the full amount you deserve if you are selling.
You should also know where the property lines are in order to protect your property from encroachments and trespassing. Many times, people do not get a survey and end up with legal and/or personal issues that could have been easily avoided or solved.
What is that nail? What is that iron pin? Is that my corner?
Most, if not all surveyors, use some sort of reference mark for their equipment and measurements. These reference marks may be nails, iron pins/rebars, etc. that the surveyor set up their equipment on in order to locate what is needed to provide you with the survey.
If you see these reference points, they are not necessarily your property corners. There is no need to be alarmed; if you are unsure, ask. The only person that uses these reference marks is the surveyor. As a homeowner, they have no direct meaning in regards to your property lines.
Why are you surveying my neighbor’s property?
During the search for evidence and information, a survey may need to stretch beyond your own property limits. Why are we locating features that are not on your property? The verification of your property lines are done by locating all property evidence and examining their location as described or depicted in the record deeds and maps.
Think of a property survey like a jigsaw puzzle; you need all the pieces available to complete it. An accurate survey needs to include all available information or “pieces” in the final opinion of your boundary.
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