Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does a land surveyor do?
A licensed land surveyor will establish or reestablish the boundary lines of your property. This involves researching property records, locating physical property markers (such as stakes or monuments), and verifying that they haven't been disturbed. Surveyors also identify any encroachments, access issues, or discrepancies between the legal description and the actual boundaries.
Who is qualified to survey my property?
Only a registered land surveyor can legally perform land surveys. Engineers, realtors, or private individuals are not permitted by state law to conduct surveys. Registered surveyors are regulated by the Arizona Board of Technical Registration and their qualifications can be verified through the board
What is an encroachment?
An encroachment occurs when a structure, such as a fence, driveway, or building, crosses into your property from a neighboring property. Encroachments are common findings during surveys and can lead to disputes if left unresolved.
Scenario:"I'm purchasing a piece of land, but the neighbors have installed a fence that seems to be close to the property line. I want to make sure I'm aware of the exact boundary before moving forward with the purchase. How can a boundary survey help in this situation?"________________________________________Answer:A boundary survey is essential in situations like yours, where there is uncertainty about the property lines. A licensed surveyor will research the property’s legal description (Deed), locate existing property markers, retrace original surveys, reset missing or destroyed monuments, and record surveys with local municipalities as public knowledge. The map will clearly determine whether the fence is within your potential property or encroaching from the neighbor’s side. Having an accurate boundary survey before purchasing the land ensures you are fully informed about the property limits and can address any potential boundary disputes before finalizing the deal.
When is a Record of Survey required?
A Record of Survey is required when:• A property corner is reestablished,• A new parcel of land is created.
Do you offer customer support?
Yes, we offer customer support. You can reach our dedicated team via phone, email, or live chat for assistance with any inquiries or issues you may encounter.
What is photogrammetry, and how is it used in surveying?
Photogrammetry is the science of using photographs to measure and create accurate 3D models or maps of a physical environment. In surveying, it involves capturing multiple overlapping images of a site—typically using drones or aircraft—and processing them with specialized software to generate detailed, accurate representations of the terrain. These models can be used for a variety of applications, including topographic mapping, construction planning, and land development.
Scenario:
"I’m planning a construction project on a site with varying elevations, and I need a highly accurate 3D model of the terrain to design the building layout and infrastructure. Traditional methods would take too long and may not capture the level of detail I need. How can photogrammetry assist me?"
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Answer:
Photogrammetry is a powerful tool for projects like yours, where detailed elevation data is crucial. By using drones to capture multiple overlapping aerial images of your site from different angles, we can generate a precise 3D model of the terrain. This model will provide you with accurate measurements of elevations, slopes, and contours, which is vital for designing the layout of your building and infrastructure. Photogrammetry offers a fast, cost-effective way to obtain the high-resolution data you need, without the time and labor required by traditional ground-based methods.
What is LiDAR, and how does it benefit surveying?
LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) uses laser pulses to measure distances and create precise 3D models of the terrain. In land surveying, LiDAR is especially valuable for mapping complex environments, such as dense forests or rugged terrains. It can capture detailed data even through tree canopies, making it ideal for topographic surveys, floodplain mapping, and infrastructure planning.Scenario:"I own a heavily wooded property and need to determine the exact topography for a potential development project. Traditional methods have been challenging due to the thick tree cover. How can LiDAR help in this situation?"________________________________________Answer:LiDAR is the perfect solution for surveying properties with dense vegetation, like your wooded land. Unlike traditional methods that might struggle with tree cover, LiDAR uses laser pulses to penetrate the canopy and measure the ground beneath with high precision. This allows it to generate detailed 3D models of the terrain, even in areas that are difficult or impossible to survey manually. With LiDAR, you'll get accurate topographic data, which is crucial for planning your development project, without the need to clear trees or access difficult terrain.
How is the cost of a survey determined?
Survey costs are influenced by multiple factors, including:• Location: The distance to the site and the need to locate section corners far from the property.• Evidence: The availability of existing property markers; fewer markers mean more time spent.• Size and Shape: Irregularly shaped properties require more work than square or rectangular lots.• Terrain and Vegetation: Hills, dense forests, or thick vegetation increase the time required for surveys.• Research: The depth of the records search necessary to obtain accurate information about the property.