Our Top FAQs
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A. – Important to know: A survey utilizes a combination of property law and mathematics to calculate and determine the location of parcel boundary lines.
A. – It depends on what you want or need it for. A survey map is a legal document that shows the location of structures and improvements in relation to the parcel boundary lines. Stakes are a visual representation of the boundary lines so you can see where they are when you walk outside.
Survey maps are used primarily for obtaining permits or selling a home. It guarantees what is on the property, what the property looks like, and often if others have rights on/over the property (easements). Stakes are more used for ‘seeing’ the boundary lines. Our company sets metal pins in the ground and puts small wooden posts next to them so they are easier to find. We always set the metal stakes flush with the ground so no one gets hurt, and we also tie colorful ribbon to both the stakes and the wooden posts. Staking is a good visual reference for fence companies and boundary line disputes. However, if you need to argue something in court, you should have a map showing the stakes.
A. – Survey maps are private documents. Though some counties require a survey be on-record, most counties do not. If you are looking for a survey on a property that you have purchased within the last 10 years, try contacting the attorney you used at the time, they may still have a copy on file.
A. – Every company is different, and every property is different. It really depends on what you need it for and the size of the property. Please ‘Message Us’ (at the bottom of the page) to receive a quote on your project. We can help you figure out exactly what you may need so that you don’t break the bank.
A. – No, you don’t have to be home, but we do need to be able to access the entire property. Leaving pets inside and gates unlocked is very helpful for our crews. We always announce ourselves when we get to a job so if you are home, you may see us around!
A. – Surveyors look for monumentation throughout an entire neighborhood, not just on the lot they are surveying. Think of it like dominoes, the decision made for one property affects all the others down the road. So, it is actually beneficial to see us in your yard, it means we are doing our best to satisfy everyone in the decision we make.
A. – A boundary line agreement or license agreement is not usually asking you to give up land. These are commonly used when improvements extend over the boundary line to a point that doesn’t allow the property owner proper access to their entire lot. There are many rules as to what is allowed and what is not. The wording can be confusing, so if you are presented with one to sign, it is advisable that you call your attorney. Boundary line agreements can also be used between landowners to solidify a boundary line that is not easily defined by deeds.
A. – No. You can get a one-line survey showing only the improvements along this line. Many people request this (and stakes) when they want to take down a tree and are unsure “whose tree it is.” Tree ownership is not cut and dry. If a tree proves to be on both properties, it is best to work it out or call your attorney.
A. – Your attorney will go to court with you and use our map to support your case. The court would decide if we were needed. However, it is common for the court to bring in a surveyor who has nothing to do with the case as an expert witness. His or her function would be to explain survey principles, not necessarily to explain a map. The map should be self-explanatory.
A. – An easement is someone else’s right over your land. They are commonly used for utilities or access over/through a particular area. Easements can be held by private landowners, utility companies, municipalities, or anyone. Easements are usually planned and are deliberate.
A. – As fun as that sounds, our equipment uses lasers and prisms to measure distances and create computer generated points, so not the kind of photos you’d get from a camera.