What We Do

This type of survey is typically conducted for use in the buying and selling of real estate.  It is one of the most detailed types of surveys showing existing improvements on a site relative to its boundaries. It will also show easements, right of ways, zoning classifications and much more. It is a more expensive and time-consuming survey due to the comprehensive nature of the work involved. 

The purpose of this type of survey is to provide a title company and/or lender with the necessary location and survey data to issue an American Land Title Association or Extended Coverage Title Insurance policy. An ALTA/ACSM survey usually shows the relationship between existing improvements on a particular parcel of land relative to the boundaries set forth in the property’s deed.

Ground control points (GCPs) are used to georeference the model. A minimum of three GCPs is required to scale, rotate and locate the model, but we recommend that each project has between 5 and 10 GCPs distributed throughout the project area.

Boundary survey is used to locate the corners and boundary lines of a parcel of land. This type of survey involves both record and field research, including any measurements and computations needed to set the boundary lines in accordance with applicable state laws. A boundary survey may also involve locating easement lines and encroachments.

A design layout survey combines a boundary survey and topographic survey. They are used to design commercial and industrial sites, house lots, subdivisions, playgrounds, and stores, among other things. A site planning survey may be required for development permit applications before construction begins.

Estate divisions are land divisions as described by a will.  Otherwise known as an Heir Division.

A FEMA Elevation Certificate is used to determine the impact of the 100 year flood zone to a lot or parcel of land and the relation of the 100 year flood zone to a house or building.  Otherwise known as a flood certificate.

A lot recombination is the re-shaping of lots lines between 2 existing lots or parcels of land.

A lot split is creating 2 lots from 1 parent lot.

A major subdivision is the creation of a number of lots greater than the number of minor subdivision lots (usually greater than 3 lots).  This subdivision plan is approved by the Planning Board.

A minor subdivision is the creation of 1-3 lots.  The subdivision plan is approved by the Planning staff and does not require the approval of the Planning Board.

Mortgage Closing surveys are performed for the use of mortgage companies for the purpose of confirming no problems exist when lending for a home loan and title insurance.

A property survey shows the existing conditions of the property at the time of the survey.  Also references what has been built and its relationship to the property lines.

Often a requirement for development permit applications, a site planning survey combines the elements of boundary and topographic surveys for site planning. This survey is used to plan design improvements and developments before construction begins.

Topographic surveys are used to identify and map the existing features on the surface of the earth, including contours, utilities, and other physical features (ditches, roads, water, etc.). A topographic survey may be required by a state or local government agency or might be used by architects and engineers for planning site improvements and developments.