Surveying

Common Questions

Your Land Surveying Experts

• What type of surveying service do I need for my project?

  At Atlas Engineering, we understand that selecting the appropriate surveying service can be confusing. The best option depends on your specific project goals. Here’s a breakdown of some common surveying services and their applications:

  • Boundary Survey: This is typically the first step for any development project. It accurately defines the legal limits of your property based on property deeds and public records. This is crucial for establishing property lines, resolving boundary disputes, and ensuring proper placement of buildings or structures.

  • Topographic Survey: This survey maps the existing features of your land, including elevations, slopes, natural and man-made features such as trees, buildings, and waterways. This information is essential for site planning, designing drainage systems, and ensuring your project blends seamlessly with the existing terrain.

  • Construction Staking: This service precisely marks the locations for buildings, utilities, roads, and other project elements based on your approved construction plans. This ensures accurate placement of structures and avoids costly mistakes during construction.

  We recommend scheduling a free consultation with one of our experienced surveyors to discuss your project in detail. Based on your needs, we can recommend the most appropriate service or a combination of services to ensure your project starts on a solid foundation.

• What does a land survey typically include?

  A land survey typically includes several key components, though the specifics may vary depending on the type of survey being conducted (e.g., boundary survey vs. topographic survey). Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect:

  • Data Collection: This is the initial phase where our surveyors gather information about your property. They may use advanced equipment like GPS technology, total stations, and 3D laser scanners to collect precise measurements and data points.

  • Site Analysis: Once the data is collected, our team analyzes it to create a clear picture of your land’s characteristics. This may involve calculations, terrain modeling, and interpreting property records to understand legal boundaries and easements.

  • Detailed Report: The final deliverable is a comprehensive report outlining the findings of the survey. This typically includes:

    • Maps and Diagrams: These visual representations depict the property lines,topography (if applicable), and any significant features identified during the survey.
    • Legal Descriptions: The report may include a written legal description of your property based on property deeds and public records. This is crucial for ensuring the accuracy of your property boundaries.
    • Data Tables: The report may contain tables with raw data collected during the survey, including measurements, elevations, and other relevant details.

  • Additional Considerations: Depending on the project’s needs, the survey may also include:

    • Photographs: Photos can be used to document existing site conditions and features.
    • Underground Utility Locating: For construction projects, identifying and marking underground utilities is crucial to avoid safety hazards.

  At Atlas Engineering, we take pride in clear communication. Throughout the surveying process, we keep you informed and ensure you understand the information presented in the final report. We are also happy to answer any questions you may have about the findings or the implications for your project.

   

• What do I need to know about property lines and easements?

  Understanding property lines and easements is crucial for any landowner or someone planning a development project. Here’s a breakdown to help you:

  Property Lines:

  • Definition: Property lines are the legally recognized boundaries that define the extent of your land ownership. They are typically established through property deeds, surveys, and public records.

  • Importance: Knowing your exact property lines is essential for:

    • Avoiding boundary disputes: Clear property lines help prevent conflicts with neighbors regarding shared space.
    • Planning construction projects: Accurately placed buildings and structures ensure they stay within your legal boundaries.
    • Understanding property rights: Knowing your property lines clarifies your rights regarding activities like landscaping, fencing, and building placement.

  Easements:

  • Definition: An easement is a legal right granted to someone (or an entity) to use a portion of another person’s property for a specific purpose. This right is typically documented in writing and attached to the property deed.

  • Common Types of Easements:

    • Right-of-way: This grants permission for access through your property, such as for utilities, roads, or shared driveways.
    • Drainage easements: These allow for drainage systems to flow across property lines.
    • Utility easements: These grant access for utility companies to install and maintain underground utilities like power lines or sewer lines.

  • Impact on Your Property: Easements can affect your development plans by limiting how you can use a specific portion of your land. It’s important to be aware of any existing easements before construction begins.

  Here are some additional points to consider:

  • Land surveys: A professional land survey is the most reliable way to determine your property lines and identify any existing easements.
  • Local regulations: Zoning regulations and building codes may also impact what you can do on your property.

  We recommend:

  • Review your property deed: This document should outline your property lines and any existing easements.
  • Consult a land surveyor: A professional surveyor (like our team) can accurately map your property lines and provide valuable insights regarding easements.
  • Contact your local planning department: They can answer questions about zoning regulations and potential restrictions on your property.

  By understanding property lines and easements, you can make informed decisions about your land and avoid potential conflicts with neighbors or legal issues in the future.