Phoenix, Arizona and Surrounding Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
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Land surveys are helpful and required in several different situations. Below are some examples of situations where you would want to hire a professional land surveyor.
- Adding and/or building: You’ll need to know where your property’s boundaries and utility lines are if you want to expand your home or build additional buildings on your land.
- Buying flood insurance: Many insurance companies require an elevation certificate to determine your home’s risk of flooding before they’ll set a premium.
- Buying a home: Learning as much as possible about the property or home you’re buying will help you make an informed decision. This isn't required to purchase, however if you are buying a large piece of property or concerned about adjacent property structures, having a survey completed is recommended.
- Creating subdivisions: To divide your property into multiple lots, you’ll need a land survey and the associated documentation.
- Putting up a fence: Ensure any fencing you put up is well within your property lines.
- Settling property disputes: Part of being a good neighbor is knowing where your property ends and theirs begins.
- Starting new construction: A vacant lot will require a survey to ensure the project is located within the property boundary.
- Refinancing: Some land characteristics change over time. If you haven’t had a boundary survey in 5 to 10 years, the bank may require one if you want to refinance your home.
A boundary survey is a professional land survey conducted to establish or re-establish the legal property lines and corners of a parcel of land. It involves the following key components:
- Research: Examination of public records, deeds, plats, and prior surveys to obtain the legal description and historical data of the property.
- Fieldwork: On-site measurement using surveying equipment (e.g., total station, GPS) to locate existing markers, physical features, and improvements relevant to the property boundaries.
- Analysis: Comparison and reconciliation of field measurements with record data to resolve discrepancies and accurately define boundary lines.
- Monumentation: Placement or verification of physical boundary markers (e.g., iron rods or concrete monuments) at property corners or key points.
- Mapping: Preparation of a certified plat or survey map showing boundary lines, dimensions, easements, encroachments, and any relevant improvements.
- Certification: The surveyor provides a signed and sealed report affirming the accuracy of the boundary as determined in accordance with applicable state laws and professional standards.
Boundary surveys are essential for property transactions, construction, permitting, and resolving land disputes.
A land title survey is a comprehensive survey that combines a boundary survey with additional detail required for the issuance of title insurance. It meets the standards set by the ALTA/NSPS (American Land Title Association/National Society of Professional Surveyors) and involves the following components:
- Boundary Determination: Establishment of property lines through detailed research of deeds, plats, and other legal records, followed by precise field measurements.
- Field Survey: On-site identification of boundary lines, improvements, easements, rights-of-way, access points, utilities, and other significant features affecting the property.
- Document Review: Examination of title commitments, recorded easements, and other encumbrances to identify their location and impact on the property.
- Monumentation: Verification and/or placement of physical markers at all boundary corners as required by surveying standards.
- ALTA/NSPS Standards Compliance: Mapping and documentation of the survey in accordance with the latest ALTA/NSPS requirements, which may include optional Table A items requested by the client or title company.
- Survey Plat: Creation of a detailed certified survey map showing boundary lines, legal descriptions, easements, encroachments, improvements, zoning classification, flood zone status, and other title-related matters.
- Certification: The surveyor provides a signed and sealed certificate affirming that the survey meets ALTA/NSPS standards and accurately reflects title conditions.
Land title surveys are typically required for commercial real estate transactions, refinancing, and development projects where title insurance and due diligence are essential.
Rider Land Surveying uses state-of-the-art equipment, including total stations, GPS receivers, and laser scanners, to ensure the accuracy and precision of our surveys.
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