A land survey is the process of measuring and locating existing structures, natural features, elevations and boundaries of a plot of land. If that sounds like a broad definition, it’s because it is! There are many different types of land surveys that we can perform, all of which are vital in land buying and selling processes, property development and much more.
Continue reading to learn a little bit more about the different land surveys a professional surveyor can perform.
ALTA/ACSM survey
ALTA/ACSM stands for American Land Title Association and American Congress on Surveying and Mapping. Banks and other lending companies require this type of survey before giving someone money to purchase a piece of land. As one of the most comprehensive survey types, this survey covers all the features and characteristics of the property.
Boundary survey
A boundary survey charts the boundary lines of a property while also giving insight into any plats and recorded deeds. To accurately perform these types of land surveys, surveyors must perform fieldwork on the land in question as well as the adjoining properties.
Construction survey
As the name implies, a construction survey is performed before any construction work begins on a site. The survey is used to stake out roads, walls, buildings, utilities and any other structures. It also involves slope staking as well as horizontal and vertical grading.
Location survey
A location survey has similarities to both an ALTA/ACSM survey and a boundary survey. Like an ALTA/ACSM survey, it can be used to fulfill the requirements of a loan application. It covers the basics of a boundary survey while providing some extra information about the location of interior improvements.
Topographic survey
These different types of land surveys are used to locate topographic features on a piece of land. With a topographic survey, we chart out contours, utilities, existing structures, ditches, roads and much more. Once the data has been taken, we can convert it to a three-dimensional map for our clients to use.
Site-planning survey
A site-planning survey is a combination of a topographic survey and a boundary survey because it shows the land’s existing natural and man-made features, proposed improvements as well as contours. Professionals perform these surveys before everything from commercial lot development to road construction and more. These surveys are even used to build something as simple as a playground.
Subdivision survey
If you have a large parcel of land that you’d like to develop into smaller lots, then you’ll need to start with a subdivision survey. Along with determining the features of each lot, this survey is beneficial when it comes to designing streets and drainage systems.
Hire our team to perform your survey
Regardless of the land survey you need, be sure to hire D.G. Smyth & Co., Inc. to complete it. We specialize in all types of land surveys, and with nearly 45 years of industry experience, you can trust that our data will be correct. Contact us today to get a quote for your next surveying project.