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What is a boundary survey and when is one needed?
A boundary survey
determines the property lines of a parcel of land described in a deed and the improvements located inside the boundary. It
will also indicate the extent of any easements or encroachments and may show the limitations
imposed by state or local regulations.
A survey is strongly recommended before buying, subdividing, improving or building
on land. Surveying the parcel before these activities insures that the expense and frustration of defending a lawsuit, moving
a building, or resolving a boundary dispute can be avoided.
What does a standard boundary survey entail?
The surveyor thoroughly examines the
historical records of the land in question and often all lands surrounding it. In addition to the Courthouse, this research
may include the County Commissioners' offices and the Department of Transportation. The surveyor may also talk with prior
owners and adjoiners.
The field work begins after the research and involves establishing a control network of known
points called a traverse. The points are used to search for and locate existing monuments and other evidence of the boundaries.
The results of the field work are compared with the research and the surveyor then reconciles
all the information to arrive at a final conclusion about the boundaries. Finally the surveyor will draft a plat to be presented
to the client.
Is a plat of the survey necessary?
A plat is a legal document that provides the client with a permanent
record of the survey. If any of the monuments are lost or destroyed, they can be replaced with the information shown on the
plat. All plats must be signed and sealed by a State Board approved Professional Land Surveyor indicating that the survey
conforms to State standards and that the surveyor has checked the work and stands ready to defend it.
If a plat is
prepared, you should record it in the County Courthouse. This not only preserves the work for future reference, but also puts
the public on notice that the area shown has been thoroughly researched and documented. In a sense it provides insurance against
most claims or disputes.
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