FAQ's
What is a land surveyor?
A land surveyor is a professional who uses applied mathematics and other technical and research skills to measure and plot:
• The dimensions of any portion of the earth’s survey (including natural and other structures)
• The length and direction of boundary lines
• The contour of the earth’s surface.
When would I use the services of a land surveyor?
You might employ a licensed land surveyor to:
• Perform a boundary survey to verify that a house, additions, and visible water and sewage systems are on the property as described in the deed
• Determine if one property encroaches on another
• Ensure that a house or addition is within property lines prior to construction or purchase
• Lay out the individual building lots in a subdivision
• Sell all or any portion of property to another
• Determine exact location of boundary lines for placement of fences or landscaping
• Prepare a FEMA elevation certificate to aid in the purchase of flood insurance
• Perform a topographic survey of your property to be used by an architect in the design of a new home or addition or by an engineer for the design of infrastructure or sight features
• Mark wetland areas designated by the government.
What credentials does a New York State licensed land surveyor have?
A land surveyor licensed in New York State has a minimum of eight years of education and experience credit and has passed both a 14-hour national examination and a two-hour New York State specific examination. They renew their license through the New York State Department of Education every three years and must complete continuing education credits.
Is your firm insured?
Yes, our firm carries general liability and professional liability insurance.
How much does a survey cost?
Many factors affect the cost of a survey. Call our office so we can ask some questions about the property and about what you wish to have done. Then we will do some research and can contact you with a no obligation estimate.
What if my neighbor’s property survey shows that their property line appears to be on my property?
First, verify that the location of your property lines are based upon a survey performed for you by a licensed land surveyor – and not one done for a former owner of the land. If there is a discrepancy in the surveys over the location of property lines, have your surveyor contact the surveyor of the adjoining property to see if they can resolve the discrepancy. If agreement cannot be reached, discuss it with your neighbor to see if you can reach a compromise on the location of the common boundary (such as splitting the overlapping property). Even if a common boundary is agreed upon, you should still contact your attorney to find out if any legal work is needed to formalize the agreement.
Can you perform a survey in the winter?
Yes, we work all year. The only surveys affected by snow cover are topographic surveys.
