There are different forms of land surveys that help us to understand and map the Earth. Boundary surveys are probably one of the most common types of land surveys and they play a significant part in every day society.
Exactly what is a Boundary Survey?
Boundary surveys are a kind of land survey used to determine the boundaries of a parcel of land which consists of 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 between iron rods and concrete blocks to something as discreet as a stick or stone.
Using these markers, the land surveyor can draft 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 might have been vandalized, eroded away or just buried over time. This may imply that the boundary surveyor needs to use other solutions 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 number of purposes, however they are mostly used to help property owners establish exactly what land is theirs. A boundary survey will highlight what is on your own property in addition to any easements or encroachments.
If you need to put an extension on your home or even merely to use a fence, shed or landscape your garden - then you will need a boundary survey before you can certainly do this.
Boundary surveys are relatively simple and inexpensive surveys - so many valuable and large commercial properties choose to have a more detailed ALTA (American Land Title Association) survey done instead.
If you are investing in a new home you should always consider getting one done prior to making the final purchase. Oftentimes the title and deeds of the land can be out-dated and inaccurate, meaning you may not be getting just as much land as you expected. Obtaining a survey will ensure which you have a legal document outlining what's rightfully yours.
A boundary survey will also indicate onto it any limitations to the property that may have been imposed by local or state regulations.
What does it involve?
An authorized land surveyor conducts boundary surveys and can start by researching historical documents linked to the land and frequently the land surrounding it as well. A number of the documents and resources they'll probably look at include: the Registry of Deeds, county commissioners office, town offices and more.
After the prior research the land surveyor will then head onto the land itself and create a traverse (control network to greatly help view every area of the land sequentially). They do that to help find existing monuments that could mark the boundaries of the land.
The final stage is to gather both field work and earlier research together to compile your final boundary survey. If more info must be made, the boundary surveyor will get back to the land to put new monuments. A report, legal description and map will undoubtedly be created.
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 location 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 can't be determined until following the boundary surveyor has begun work - because the price will increase if they are struggling to find markers or there is little historical evidence to use.