The Vital Role of Accurate Land Surveys§
A land survey is more than just a routine procedure; it’s an essential step in defining the exact boundaries, dimensions, and features of a property. Prepared by a professional, licensed surveyor, land surveys provide highly detailed drawings that are critical in property transactions.
What a Land Survey Includes§
A thorough land survey goes beyond just mapping borders. It offers multiple crucial components, such as:
- Property Corners: Clearly marks different corners of the property.
- Adjacent Tracts: Shows any adjoining tracts of land.
- Easements and Encumbrances: Identifies any legal rights, such as easements, that might exist over the property.
- Physical Features: Captures existing features like buildings, fences, and driveways.
- Exact Area: Specifies the precise area of the land tract.
The Surveyor’s Duties§
When preparing a survey, a licensed surveyor undertakes various detailed activities:
- On-site Inspection: The surveyor visits the property to pinpoint property corners and note any physical features.
- Precision Measurements: Uses specialized tools and technologies to obtain exact measurements.
- Legal Research: Examines courthouse records or title reports to determine easements and other legal elements affecting the tract.
Producing the Final Drawing§
With all information collected, the surveyor creates a comprehensive drawing. This document provides a clear and detailed visual representation of the property, benefits both buyer and seller in understanding exactly what is being transferred. A well-executed land survey removes ambiguity, mitigates disputes, and ensures the successful transfer of property rights.
Related Terms: topography, geodetic surveying, land title, real estate.
