There are different types of land surveys that help us to comprehend and map the Earth. Boundary surveys are one of the most common forms of land surveys plus they play a significant part in every day society.
What is a Boundary Survey?
Boundary surveys are a type of land survey used to establish the boundaries of a parcel of land using its legal description.
The method of fabricating boundary surveys usually involves setting or finding previous markers or monuments across the lines and in the corners of the land parcel. These markers range from iron rods and concrete blocks to something as discreet as a stick or stone.
Using these markers, the land surveyor can draw up a map or plat that represents the positioning of the markers and in turn the boundaries of the land.
In a few circumstances the boundary markers may have been vandalized, eroded away or just buried over time. This can imply that the boundary surveyor must use other methods to create the boundary survey. Methods can include searching for fence locations, monuments on neighboring property, wood lines along with other evidence.
What are they useful for?
Boundary surveys have a variety of purposes, nonetheless they are most commonly used to help property owners establish exactly what land is theirs. A boundary survey will highlight what is on your own property along with any easements or encroachments.
If local contractor want to put an extension on your home or even just to use a fence, shed or landscape your garden - then you will require a boundary survey before you can do this.
Boundary surveys are relatively simple and inexpensive surveys - so many valuable and large commercial properties elect to have a more detailed ALTA (American Land Title Association) survey done instead.
If you are buying a new home you should always consider getting one done prior to making the final purchase. Oftentimes the title and deeds of the land could be out-dated and inaccurate, meaning you may not be getting just as much land as you expected. Getting a survey will ensure that you have a legal document outlining what's rightfully yours.
A boundary survey may also indicate on it any limitations to the house that may have already been imposed by local or state regulations.
What does it involve?
A licensed land surveyor conducts boundary surveys and can start by researching historical documents related to the land and frequently the land surrounding it as well. Some of the documents and resources they will probably look at include: the Registry of Deeds, county commissioners office, town offices and much more.
After the prior research the land surveyor will then head onto the land itself and develop a traverse (control network to help view all areas of the land sequentially). They do that to help find existing monuments which could mark the boundaries of the land.
The final stage would be to gather both field work and earlier research together to compile a final boundary survey. If changes have to be made, the boundary surveyor will go back to the land to place new monuments. A report, legal description and map will be created.
Just how much does it cost?
The costs vary depending on a number of influencing factors. Some of these factories include: the size, terrain, vegetation and located area of the land parcel. The season will also affect the price of the boundary survey - since it will take longer to perform in harsh weather.
Most of the price cannot be determined until following the boundary surveyor has begun work - as the price will increase if they are struggling to find markers or there is little historical evidence to utilize.