So, how do I get a Land Survey?

Okay, you've made the decision that you need to hire a land surveyor to come out and conduct a property survey for your property. Perhaps it is because of a neighborly dispute, or because you are building a fence or hedge and you want to make sure you are building/planting in the correct location. Maybe you just want to confirm where the property lines are because you've just purchased a new house. Whatever your reasons, be prepared for what to do when it comes time to hire that land surveyor.

Find a Good Land Surveyor

Make sure you don't just rifle through the yellow pages and choose any random land surveyor. You need to find one that is not only reputable but that is licensed as well. You can start by checking with a civil engineering firm to find someone who can tell you what documents you will need and who can approve any final drawings done. Don't be afraid to check references! Plus, land surveys can vary widely in price so don't be afraid to get several quotes and compare prices. You want a reputable firm but make sure you aren't spending more than you should for your project.

Know What you Need

Make sure that you give the surveyor everything they need to conduct a good survey for you. Give them any past documentation you may have or any other property information that might be useful. If you are disputing an area, give them detailed information regarding the dispute. If you are building an addition make sure you have all the information available.

Instruction for the Surveyor

Make sure you know when your surveyor is coming out to do the work. This may be especially important if you are fighting something in court with your neighbor. Schedule your land surveyor appropriately and understand that weather can have a bearing on the situation as well. Make sure that if they see any existing iron pins in the ground or monuments that mark property boundaries they don't remove them. If these are removed they can't be replaced and are lost. Know your property so that you can convey the information to the surveyor.

Research

Do your research. Know the local laws regarding land surveys and have copies of any city, state or town ordinances that would be helpful for the surveyor. This can help you in understanding where your rights may lie in a property dispute and what you might face in the situation. Also, if you know a survey has been done in the past, see if the engineering company who did it can give you the past information for a cheaper price. This could save you a lot of time and money if the work has already been done.

There is a ton of work that goes into getting a land survey. Even more work goes into it when it involves a dispute with a neighbor. However, cover your back and make sure you have all the information you need to be successful in any situation. From the building of a fence to the adding of an addition, you need to make sure you are following the rules set forth by your local city or state. Get that property survey and save yourself a lot of time and hassle in the long run.

About the Author: Rebecca Beckett is a freelance writer for Innuity. If you would like more information about land surveyor or property survey go to Dryco