Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I find my own property lines?
A: Legally, you must be licensed to establish or map a property line for others. If you determine your own property lines, for your own use, you take the risk of being wrong in your determination.
Q: Isn't my survey on file someplace?
A: No, not necessarily. Across the U.S., laws, ordinances, customs and requirements differ on whether you have to file a "Survey". Often, "Subdivision Plats", which are prepared by Surveyors, are filed of record in the local government Register of Deeds Office. Many people view these as "Surveys", because they can see their lot on it. If you can find record documentation to substantiate what you "own" compared to what is referred to on the "subdivision plat", it may help you determine what the "approximate" dimensions of a lot are. Keep in mind that these distances as shown are only approximate. The true distance of a lot line is that which is measured between the positions of original, undisturbed lot corners of the subdivision plat. The Land Surveyor is the one who determines these "positions", and determine whether they may be original, undisturbed positions.
Q: Will I be shown my property corners and lines?
A: It is always a good idea to know where one’s property lines and corners are. Property corners are normally found or replaced by the Land Surveyor. If the property corner is set (or replaced), property corners are usually set beneath the surface of the ground, for durability and permanence. Marking additional points along the property line(s) is not included within the general fee associated with the land survey and is considered additional scope.
Q: Do I need a survey to build a fence?
A: Check with your local government agency or neighborhood homeowners association that governs any requirements about a fence. Though some governmental agencies do not require a survey to issue a building permit to build a fence, you should know where your property lines are before construction. Some homeowners association requires a current survey to be completed and submitted with the request for their approval of fence placement. Furthermore, most zoning ordinances do not require a specific setback off the property line for fences; however, you should consider placing your fence a few inches within your property to protect the investment you are making in the cost of your fence.
Q: When is a survey necessary?
A: - Before title to land is conveyed
- To clarify boundaries and acreage
- To identify encroachments and title matters, such as easements
and rights-of-way
- Before designing new buildings or improvements
- To mark the location of new buildings, roads or other improvements
for construction purposes
- To settle a boundary dispute between you and a neighbor
- Before land is subdivided
- To prepare a plat for recording
Q: Where can I find out more information about ALTA/ACSM Land Title Surveys?
A: We've posted answers to common ALTA questions here.
Q: My lender doesn't require a survey, is it okay if I don't get one?
A: Not getting a survey map when buying a house can be risky. It is important to know whether any physical features or title overlaps might create encroachments or, in some way, adversely affect the title to the land. There have been cases where no survey was ordered, and it turned out a driveway or even the building itself was halfway on a neighbor's lot. In many cases, the surveyor can help recommend how to solve the problem between you and your neighbor. In case of litigation, the surveyor can appear in court as an expert witness on your behalf. The surveyor's testimony is usually accepted as professional evidence by the court.
Q: How much will a survey cost?
A: There are many factors that determine the cost of a survey. These can include the time to:
-Search government and court records for evidence to determine original boundary line locations
-Locate the boundary onsite by completing field surveys
-Make computations to check the boundary measurements
-Prepare the survey map
-Mark property corners
-Stake property lines if requested
The cost of the survey will also vary based on rough terrain, disputed lines, heavy underbrush and travel time to the job site. Since survey costs are determined based on the scope of work, terrain and size of the property, prices are provided on a project by project basis. Please fill out the "Request for Proposal" form to submit online, print and fax or call us for a customized estimate.
Q: What is that pin/stake left by the surveyors that seems to be in the middle of my yard? Is that my property corner?
A: The pin/stake in the middle of your yard is often not a property corner. The equipment we use requires stationary reference points on the ground. These points are called 'control points' and do not indicate property corners, property lines or any boundary. These points are necessary to the surveyor and usually need to remain in the ground. If any markers (flagging, stakes, paint, etc.) placed by the surveyor are an annoyance to you please let the field team know before they leave.
Q: Can you survey my property today?
A: A typical residential survey can be completed within a few days. All other surveys require that the timeframe be calculated on a case-by-case basis. Please fill out our "Request for Proposal" form and we will provide you with a proposal that includes our fee and timeframe to complete our work.
Q: What do I need to do to become a surveyor myself?
A: Find a surveyor in your area and see if they are hiring. Maybe they might want weekend or part-time help. Another way of getting into land surveying is to apply to a school where surveying or geomatics is offered.
Q: Are you insured?
A: Yes. If necessary, we can email/fax a copy of our certificate of insurance once a contract is signed.
Q: What geographic areas do you cover?
A: A.G. Zoutewelle Surveyors services the entire North Carolina and Virginia areas.
Q: What should I consider when selecting a land surveyor?
A: It is best to select a Professional Land Surveyor by their qualifications. Every Professional Land Surveyor must follow the requirements listed in the "Standards of Practice for Land Surveying in North Carolina." The Standards of Practice list everything the land surveyor must do during a survey and what must appear on the final survey map. A responsible surveyor will perform all contracted work in accordance with state laws, local regulations and high ethical standards. Some items may be required by state law whether you feel they are necessary to your project or not. Feel free to discuss these requirements and the steps of a land survey with one of our associates.
