What is a land survey?

A land survey is a precise measurement and mapping of a property or parcel of land. It defines property boundaries, locates improvements, and provides accurate data for construction, permitting, design, and legal documentation.

Why do I need a land survey?

Property owners may need a survey for reasons such as:

• Buying or selling a property

• Building a new home or addition

• Installing a fence, driveway, pool, or shed

• Disputes over property boundaries

• Submitting plans to a township or zoning board

• Subdivision, lot line adjustments, or easements

A survey ensures you know exactly what you own and helps avoid costly disputes or construction issues.

What does a land surveyor do?

A professional land surveyor:

• Researches deeds, maps, and historical records

• Performs field measurements using GPS, scanning, and total station equipment

• Analyzes boundary evidence and applies professional judgment

• Establishes and marks property corners

• Produces plans, property maps, legal descriptions, and reports
  Surveyors are licensed professionals legally authorized to determine property boundaries.

What is the difference between a land surveyor and an engineer?

While surveyors and engineers often work together, their roles differ:

Land Surveyor

• Locates and defines boundaries

• Measures property, topography, and existing features

• Produces plats, survey maps, and boundary documents

Engineer

• Designs improvements such as grading, drainage, utilities, stormwater systems, and site development

• Prepares engineering plans for construction and permitting

• Performs calculations to ensure safety, compliance, and performance

Surveyors provide the existing conditions and property framework; engineers design what goes on the land.

What is a boundary survey?

A boundary survey determines the exact property lines of a parcel. It includes:

• Research and deed analysis

• Field measurements

• Monument recovery or installation

• Preparation of a survey map or plat

Markers may be set at property corners as part of the survey.

How are property corners set?

Property corners are typically marked with durable survey monuments such as:

• Rebar with identification caps

• Iron pipes

• Concrete monuments

• Drill holes in stone or pavement

A surveyor sets the markers based on record documents, measurements, and boundary evidence. In many states, markers must be stamped or otherwise identified by the surveyor of record.

Will I get a drawing of my property after the survey?

Yes. Deliverables typically include a signed and sealed survey map showing:

• Boundary lines and dimensions

• Property corners

• Structures, improvements, and observable encroachments

• Easements, rights-of-way, and relevant notes

Digital files (PDF, CAD, or GIS formats) may also be provided upon request.

What is a topographic survey?

A topographic (or “topo”) survey maps the shape and features of the land, including:

• Elevations and contours

• Buildings and structures

• Trees, walls, curbs, drives, and walkways

• Utilities, manholes, inlets, and visible infrastructure
  This type of survey is commonly used for site planning, design, permitting, and engineering.

What is a plot plan?

A plot plan (sometimes called a site plan) shows:

• The property boundary

• Existing structures

• Proposed improvements such as additions, decks, driveways, pools, etc.

Townships often require plot plans with permit applications to ensure zoning compliance, setbacks, and lot coverage requirements are met.

What is a grading plan?

A grading plan is an engineering document that shows how a site will be shaped to manage:

• Ground elevation changes

• Drainage and runoff

• Stormwater requirements

• Slopes, retaining walls, and site contours

A grading plan is typically required when building a new home, addition, driveway, or major site improvement.

What affects the cost of a survey?

Survey pricing depends on factors such as:

• Lot size and shape

• Vegetation and site accessibility

• Number of existing monuments found or replaced

• The amount of deed or boundary research required

• Type of survey and deliverables needed

• Township or permitting requirements

We always provide up-front pricing before beginning work.

Do you work with homeowners, contractors, developers, and real estate professionals?

Yes. We regularly work with:

• Homeowners and homebuyers

• Architects and builders

• General contractors

• Title companies and attorneys

• Municipal agencies

• Developers and commercial clients

We also assist with real estate closings, planning board approvals, zoning applications, and construction support.