Why You May Need a Survey Before Building…

Posted by Adam Hoffman on


Planning to expand your home, add a garage, or develop a commercial property? Before you break ground, there’s an essential step that could save you time, money and frustration: obtaining an Improvement Location Survey (ILS).

WHAT IS AN IMPROVEMENT LOCATION SURVEY?
An Improvement Location Survey is often required by local permitting agencies such as Planning and Zoning before you can move forward with any new construction or additions. This type of survey provides a detailed view of your property boundaries, existing site conditions, and the location of proposed improvements. It also includes important zoning criteria and calculations that help determine whether your project complies with local regulations.

WHY IT MATTERS
Once submitted, the permitting authority will review the ILS to confirm that the proposed work meets all zoning requirements. If it doesn’t, you may need to apply for a variance—and that’s where timing becomes critical.

PLAN AHEAD TO STAY ON SCHEDULE
At GHH LLC, we’ve seen many clients face unnecessary setbacks simply because they weren’t familiar with local permitting requirements or didn’t realize how far in advance surveyors may be booked. With construction season in full swing, survey firms often schedule weeks—or even months—ahead.

Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or developer, the best approach is to plan early, understand local zoning rules, and confirm whether an ILS is required for your specific project.

NEED HELP NAVIGATING THE PROCESS?
GHH LLC provides timely and accurate surveying services to keep your project moving forward. We’re here to help you understand what’s needed, meet critical deadlines, and avoid costly delays.

Contact us today to schedule your Improvement Location Survey or to discuss your upcoming project needs.

Happy Global Surveyors Day!

Posted by Adam Hoffman on

CELEBRATING OUR WORK IN SURVEYING

Did you know?  The path to Global Surveyors’ Day began in ancient Egypt when society first used surveying techniques to divide land. In 2013, the signing of the Budapest declaration created a common worldwide celebration for those leaders, past and present. 

Here’s how GHH’s team was inspired to enter the surveying field and what keeps them at it:

CALVIN WEINGART, P.L.S. – Surveyor (top row center)
How did you enter the career field?
I was looking for a new job and surveying looked like a job that might keep me outdoors so I sent a resume to Godfrey Hoffman Associates – that was more than 25 years ago!

What keeps you in the profession?
The variety of tasks involved, the mix of physical and mental work and the random things you see while out and about in the field.

What’s the worst and best part of surveying?
The worst is cold, wet feet, dead batteries, bad data, and forgetting to bring my lunchbox to the field. The best parts are the changing seasons, unlocking the secrets of the land and working alongside dedicated people.

ZACH WEINGART  – Surveyor (top row right)
How did you enter the career field?
My dad took me to work as a kid and I started working in the summer during high school.

What keeps you in the profession?
I enjoy the day-to-day variety of work and being able to work independently.

What’s the worst and best part of surveying?
The worst is nosey neighbors and prickers. The best is being outdoors, encountering a variety of environments and people.

ADAM HOFFMAN, P.L.S. – Principal/Director of Surveying (bottom row left)
How did you enter the career field?
I was working at a gas station.  My uncle who owned GHH at the time had an employee who got hurt. He hired me to “shlep” the equipment for the field crew that was led by a guy by the name of Red. My uncle then pushed me to study the field in college – the rest is history!

What keeps you in the profession?
Initially I really loved the outdoors.  As I grew and matured I came to enjoy and appreciate the historical aspect of what we do and figuring out the puzzles of a boundary.  These days it’s more how run to run a successful business and deliver for our clients in a constantly changing world.

What’s the worst and best part of surveying?
The worst are ticks, traffic, leaves, and the frozen ground of winter. The best is working with people who love it almost as much as I do and delivering accurate information to satisfied clients.

CASSIDY FOX – Surveyor (bottom row center)
How did you enter the career field?
I was undecided in college and worked for my dad who is a surveyor for a few summers. I ended up really enjoying the math, problem solving and outdoors.

What keeps you in the profession?
Finding solutions to problems is very rewarding. I’ve always been interested in math and geometry. I love to keep my brain strong that way.

What’s the worst and best part of surveying?
The worst is the extreme heat and extreme cold. And bugs.  The best is that for me it’s fun, that there are new jobs all the time and the fact that we work both inside and outdoors – it always feels fresh – never stale!

TEDDY & ROMY- Office & Field Dogs (top row left / bottom row right)
How did you enter the career field?
We were both adopted by surveyors so we’ve been dogs both in the field and in the office since we can remember.

What keeps you in the profession?
Besides our owners? Treats, belly rubs, great walks on surveying sites, a cozy place to nap and being around the best people in the world.

What’s the worst and best part of surveying?
Being ignored is always the worst – The best would have to be unlimited treats in the office, chasing the ball up and down the hallways, being spoiled by Maria and Cassidy, and being there for my people when they need company in the field.

Top Ten Reasons To Work With GHH…

Posted by Adam Hoffman on

Why work with us?

Here’s 10 reasons why GHH is above and beyond the rest:

(🥁 Drum Roll Please 🥁)

 #10 – Efficient and Accurate Surveys:
Understanding the value of your time, we ensure our surveys are conducted efficiently without compromising accuracy. Our state-of-the-art technology and experienced surveyors work diligently to provide precise results promptly.

#9 – Clear and Undisputed Property Boundaries:
We specialize in delivering clear and detailed boundary surveys. Our meticulous approach ensures that the boundaries of your property are established with undisputed accuracy, providing you with peace of mind and legal clarity.

#8 – Comprehensive Initial Surveys with All Details:
Our initial surveys are thorough, aiming to capture all necessary details to prevent the need for additional work mid-project. This comprehensive approach saves you time and resources in the long run.

#7 – Accurate Representation of Constructed Projects:
For those involved in construction, we offer as-built surveys that accurately reflect the completed project. This ensures that your construction aligns with planned designs and meets all regulatory requirements.

#6 – Cost Effective Surveying Services:
We understand the importance of budgeting. We offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality, ensuring you receive the best value for our services.

#5 – Reliable Surveys for Confident Development:
Our surveys provide the reliable data needed for your development projects. With our detailed reports, you can proceed with your projects confidently, knowing that you have accurate and comprehensive information.

#4 – Surveys Simplifying Real Estate Transactions:
We streamline the real estate transaction process with our surveys. Whether you are buying, selling, or developing, our accurate surveys provide the essential information needed for smooth transactions.

#3 – Access to a Range of Survey Types:
Our services cover various types of surveys, including topographic, boundary, and special purpose surveys like floodplain analysis, ensuring that all aspects of your land are thoroughly assessed.

#2 – Updated and Precise Records:
We use the latest methods to ensure that our survey records are up-to-date and precise, reflecting the current state of your property accurately.

#1 – !!!YOUR SATISFACTION IS OUR PRIORITY!!!:
All of us at GHH are committed to providing services that not only meet but exceed your expectations. We invite you to give us a call and thank you in advance for choosing us as your trusted partner in land surveying!

Tales From The Front Desk

Posted by Adam Hoffman on

How GHH Helps When You Call…

A short interview with GHH Office Manager Maria Latella lets you know how we can help you with your needs and goals. A GHH inquiry intake story:

What does a typical request look like?

Depends on the caller’s specific survey or engineering needs but most of the calls are for services related to residential property, commercial property, elevation certificates, additions, subdivisions or construction layout.

What kind of information do you need or are listening for during these conversations?

It starts with contact information, who a proposal should be sent to (it does vary depending on the situation), who will be responsible for financials, and finally, what is the purpose of the survey or engineering services.

What happens after gathering the basic information?   Does the conversation end or continue?

It might end with a brief description of what the client can expect for next steps or it might continue depending on input from the client.  For example, if a client is unsure of what specific type of survey is needed we can ask some questions about what they are trying to accomplish.  If they want to see where their boundaries are marked on the ground that is one type of survey.  If they are planning on improvements to the site, that is another kind of survey.  In addition to helping determine the type of survey needed, it’s a good chance to describe the value of each.

Is it difficult to get to that point in the conversation?  Do you listen for key words or specific scenarios the potential client is referring to?

We listen for key words such as “flood insurance” or “I live on the shore” which most likely relates to completing a flood certificate.  Or, phrases such as “ I want to do an addition” and“ We have land we want to subdivide” can help drive what type of service is needed and how we can help.   Most clients are not aware of the various types of surveys so we try to lead the conversation to narrow down the list in order to provide the most appropriate proposal we can from the start.

How do you leave off with a client?

I will always explain next steps, specify who will accomplish them (e.g. , a Licensed Land Surveyor or Professional Engineer) and when to expect communication.

What is your overall goal when speaking with a potential client?

The goal is to convey a sense of confidence, that we are patient, that we care about their request and care about their end goal.

What is one thing you want clients to know when they call Godfrey Hoffman Hodge LLC?

There are lots of way we can help with your needs/goals.  The more we communicate, the better, and faster we can help

Project Spotlight: The Hamden Business Incubator

Posted by Peter Grunawalt on

hamden business incubator

A project Godfrey-Hoffman Associates is currently part of is steadily moving forward.  The construction is nearly complete on the current phase of work at the future site of the Hamden Business Incubator. This phase includes the removal of old boilers and asbestos, as well as clearing out contaminated materials in the basement. The $200,000 for this phase came from the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Hamden Economic Development Corporation (HEDC).

The Hamden Business Incubator is being developed by HEDC at the location of the former Newhall Community Center at 496 Newhall Street, which has been closed since 2002. The incubator will be serve as the location for up to 20 small businesses that specialize in service and technology areas such as light manufacturing, web design and medical office administration. The goal is develop affordable space for entrepreneurs to grow in Hamden to create jobs and increase tax revenue.

Continue reading “Project Spotlight: The Hamden Business Incubator” →

Bamboo-zled! State Holds Property Owners Accountable for Bamboo Growth

Posted by Peter Grunawalt on

Bamboo 1 resized 600Within Connecticut, planting of bamboo has become popular, particularly along coastal areas. However, most are unaware of how quickly and extensively bamboo can spread, and hence, the new liabilities property owners assume when planting.

The particular type of bamboo under scruitiny is known to regulators as “running bamboo.” Though not considered an invasive species in Connecticut, it has a root system that is particularly adept at spreading underground, and if not carefully maintained, will spread from one property to another. According to an article published February 17th on OrangeLive.com, the “bamboo roots spread and travel underground far from the visible plants and new shoots can pop up just about anywhere. They are strong enough to tear up patios and foundations and destroy septic systems.”

Continue reading “Bamboo-zled! State Holds Property Owners Accountable for Bamboo Growth” →

[Press Release] Hodge, LLC Receives 2013 Best of Farmington Award

Posted by Adam Hoffman on

farmington award programFarmington Award Program Honors the Achievement of Hodge, LLC

For the second consecutive year, Hodge, LLC has been selected for the 2013 Best of Farmington Award in the Professional Land Surveyors & Civil Engineers category by the Farmington Award Program. Here is an excerpt from the Farmington Award Program:

Continue reading “[Press Release] Hodge, LLC Receives 2013 Best of Farmington Award” →