SERVICES PROVIDED

What Type of Survey Do I Need??

• Boundary Survey:

A boundary survey is a general term but the simple definition is, retracing the existing  boundary of a piece of property. It is common for existing property owners to request that they would like to have an updated survey of their property.  Usually this is requested because of the years that have passed since a survey has been completed on the property.  Typically property lines do not change, however as areas continue to experience growth; terrain can change and that once known property corner becomes tough to find with the "naked eye."  Boundary surveys can range in property sizes great and small.  Once the work in the field has been completed by the surveying crew, a drawing will be produced by the surveyor showing the property lines with the correct angles and distances that were either found or reproduced during the field work.  This drawing, commonly referred to as a plat, is delivered to the owner at completion and the owner will have it recorded in the local register of deeds office.

• Mortgage/ Closing Survey:

A mortgage/closing survey is what can typically be required by a local bank and mortgage underwriter when purchasing a new home.  These types of surveys are very similar to a boundary survey.  Some of the differences with these types of surveys is what the mortgage underwriters require that they want located on the drawing in relation to the property lines.  Typically the requirements are any permanent structures like houses and outbuildings along with driveways and fences.  The reason for this requirement is because the underwriters' want to make sure that everything that is being purchased in the transaction is within the property limits.  The plat is produced showing the surveyor's findings and delivered to the owner prior to closing the property transaction.

Topographic Survey & Tree Survey:

A topographic survey is measuring the existing topography (elevations and elevation change) of your parcel.  Sometimes this type of survey is requested by architects or engineers for the purpose of designing the site for a future residence or structure.  Having this type of survey will assist in the proper positioning of the structure along with planning for the grading of site.  In addition to measuring the elevations of the property, on occasion is may be beneficial to locate specific size and type of trees located on the property.  Some homeowner associations require "tree" surveys to ensure that certain tree species or size of tree is protected or spared during any construction activity.  

• Residential House Layout Survey:

A house layout survey is where the land surveyor is hired by either a local home building contractor or the homeowner to layout the location of a new home based off of the builder's plan.  The surveyor would reproduce the plan and place accurate marks on the ground in a location determined by the owner.  This type of survey will benefit the building contractor and the homeowner in aiding them in making sure the house is located where they desire.  Further it will help during the construction of the home with the footings, walls, etc. 

• Shoreline Projection Survey:

Shoreline Projection Survey is an isolated type of survey that is performed on properties that adjoin lakes and waterways.  These types of surveys are not required on every waterway or lake.  This requirement would be set by each individual lake shore management service.  The explanation of this type of survey is better explained in the respective lake shore management's requirements.  If you have questions on this type of survey, give us a call.  

• FEMA Flood Elevation Certificate: 

A flood elevation certificate is often required by a mortgage company or a governing authority when a parcel is located or presumed to be located within a special flood hazard area.  These flood hazard areas are defined by FEMA based on several criteria.  The requestor of this type of survey is looking for information to determine whether or not your property or a building located on your property is within the special flood hazard area.  This type of survey will require a trip to the property for measurements to be taken to determine ground elevations and also floor elevations of permanent structures on the property.  The data and measurements are then placed on specific FEMA forms and provided to the property owner to forward to the requesting authority.  ​