There are several different types of surveys:

Boundary surveys are the most common type of survey that we perform. Prior to the actual field survey, our professional staff researches deeds, plans of record and other available data such as tax maps or road right-of-way plans to recalculate and verify the location your property corners. During the field survey, our field technicians will locate existing property monumentation of the subject property and neighboring parcels based on the property research. If property corner pins are missing, our crew will reset missing pins and temporarily mark the property line and corners with wooden stakes for reference. Unless otherwise stated, our boundary survey service do not typically generate a physical survey plan. Typically, these services are performed for clients interested in location of their property lines in order to install a fence, trim vegetation or to identify encroachments.

Existing features surveys are the typical starting point for most projects, large and small. Generally, an existing features survey starts similar to a boundary survey, however while out in the field, our survey technicians locate all visible improvements such as driveways, curbs, sidewalks, buildings, trees, etc. Existing features can be performed with or without topography and elevation data. Typically, these services are preformed for clients looking to develop their property, construct a building addition or construct a garage or pole barn. This type of survey typically includes a site plan with tabulation of existing building areas, concrete areas, paved areas, building setbacks, etc. This plan can be used a base plan for future development, building additions, stormwater management, zoning relief, etc.

An ALTA survey, or ALTA/NSPS survey, is a detailed land survey typically used in real estate transactions. ALTA stands for the American Land Title Association, and NSPS stands for the National Society of Professional Surveyors. This type of survey is conducted according to standards set by these organizations.

Here are key aspects of an ALTA survey:

• Purpose: It’s designed to provide a comprehensive view of a property’s boundaries, improvements, and potential issues that might affect its title or value. This survey is often required by lenders or buyers before closing on commercial real estate deals.

• Details Included: An ALTA survey includes information about property lines, easements, encroachments, building locations, rights-of-way, and any visible improvements. It also identifies potential issues like zoning boundaries, flood zones, and other relevant legal or physical factors.

• Standards: The survey follows specific standards set by the ALTA and NSPS, ensuring consistency and accuracy. These standards are regularly updated to reflect changes in surveying technology and practices.

• Legal and Financial Importance: The survey provides crucial information for title insurance and can protect both buyers and lenders by revealing any issues that might impact ownership or use of the property.

In summary, an ALTA survey is a detailed and highly precise survey that provides essential information for commercial real estate transactions, helping to ensure that all parties have a clear understanding of the property’s characteristics and any potential issues.

An “asbuilt” survey is similar to an existing features survey. Some projects require confirmation that a project was built per the approved design plans. After construction, our field crew will re-survey portions of a property that changed due to project construction. Generally, this is a specific requirement of the reviewing agencies, so items to be re-surveyed sometimes vary. Generally speaking, asbuilt surveys identify building corners, extents of new impervious surfaces, verify elevations and identify utilities such as stormwater management facilities or sanitary sewer pipes.