You have probably come across a person on a road or property looking through a binocular-like device resting on a tripod and wondered what they were doing. Well, that was a land surveyor, and the device, theodolite, they were peeking through is crucial in surveying projects. Notably, a land surveyor's measurements determine 3D positions or boundaries on maps, which is critical for property ownership. That said, few people understand land surveying; therefore, this post explores subtle facts about the exercise.

Money Does Not Dictate a Survey Exercise 

Some property owners think hiring a land surveyor means the professionals will produce results that favour their interests. However, a surveyor's job is dictated upon by history, science, and math. Therefore, your surveyor cares less whether you want an extra foot on your boundary to extend your house or shed. Instead, they will determine the exact measurements in your lot and forward their findings to the local lands office. If you want to go against these measurements afterwards, do so at your own risk because a surveyor is not liable.

Land Survey Certificate Is Valid for Two Years 

When a land surveyor completes a survey, they issue a client a survey certificate. The document shows the location of structures on your property, boundary lines and the building footprint within the frontiers. However, a land survey certificate is valid for only two years, meaning that a buyer who wishes to invest in a property must obtain the current survey certificate. It is critical because relying on an outdated survey certificate exposes you to legal problems, such as unauthorised encroachment. Notably, land surveyors keep a copy of all their surveys; therefore, you can obtain one, albeit at a cost. If a certificate of older than two years, you need to conduct another survey to ascertain nothing has changed since the last exercise.

Land Survey Includes the Small Stuff 

Most people think they only need a surveyor when buying land or a building. However, most individuals are surprised to learn that they still need a land surveyor when installing a fence or extending their house. The reason is that a licenced surveyor must handle anything likely to alter the details in a previous survey. For instance, if there is a boundary issue with your neighbour when installing a fence, a land surveyor will act as an expert witness should the case go to court.  

Contact a local land surveyor if you need this service.