How Are Property Lines Surveyed?

property lines ctThe ability to identify your property lines is both valuable and beneficial, especially in disputes over boundaries and the legality of site improvements. Property lines are designated positions that specify the end of a person’s property. A landowner uses property lines to identify whether a piece of land or structure is legally positioned inside their property lines.

It can also be used as a basis for planning the location of additional structures in order to make sure that it is properly placed inside the premises of the property.

Understanding how a property line is surveyed is fundamental knowledge needed to resolve boundary disputes, and is also useful for development plans.

Steps in Surveying Property Lines

Estimation of Costs

After selecting one or more professional land surveyor companies for the job, the chosen surveyors should then estimate for the cost of the survey. Godfrey-Hoffman & Hodge in Connecticut, a professional surveying firm, will offer Connecticut property owners a free estimate of the cost of the survey.

Contract Signing

Once the land owner and the surveying company agree to the terms and cost of the survey, it is time for them to sign the contract. This contract will serve as a guideline as to what you should expect on the survey to be performed. It also includes information on the time it will take to complete the survey and the amount to pay to the surveying company. Godfrey-Hoffman & Hodge includes a detailed description and costs of services in their proposals to each prospective client.

Detailed Research on Land Records

The professional surveyor will then carry out detailed research on the client’s property and all other properties that are connected to it. The purpose of this research is to identify the location of the property in relation to the adjacent lands surrounding the property. The surveyor should also “back title” the properties back to when they were split off from a larger parcel. GHH has extensive records which help with this in-depth research.

Performing the Property Line Survey

The field survey for the property line is performed. It should include extensive field location of all existing survey markers in the area and all visible improvements on-site.

Evaluation of the Property Line Survey

All information collected during the property line survey is evaluated; the property lines are computed and determined.

Property Line Stakeout

The property corners are then erected with iron pins or concrete monuments to mark the boundaries of the property. (If requested)

Creation of Survey Map

The land surveyors will then create a detailed survey map of the subject property which includes: locations of all boundary markers; improvements and features (such as buildings, sheds, decks driveways, roads, surface utilities, bodies of water and pools); existing and/or visible evidence of easements and/or right-of-ways; lines of occupation including all fences, walls, hedges and yards; deed restrictions; unresolved conflicts with deeds and maps; and all apparent boundary encroachments.

Key Takeaways:

• Property lines are designated positions on a particular land that specifies the end of a person’s property.

• A landowner uses property lines to identify whether a piece of land or structure is legally positioned inside his property. It can also be used as a basis for planning the location of additional structures in order to make sure that it is properly placed inside the premises of the property.

Image Courtesy of: freedigitalphotos.net