It really depends upon the situation. Generally, before a contractor submits an estimate to a client, he or she conducts an inspection of the client’s construction site to determine the scope of work and identify any issues that may arise from the development project.

During the inspection, the contractor should be able to conclude if a land survey is needed prior to construction and may include it in the proposed contract of agreement and cost estimate for the construction work.

Alternatively, the contractor can also advise the client that a land survey is needed before any development work can be done, therefore giving the option to the client to secure the services of a professional third party land surveyor, such as Godfrey-Hoffman & Hodge in Connecticut, to do the surveying task.

On the other hand, if the client already has an updated land survey record, then a new land survey may be optional, unless part of the work needed has a conflict with the identified land boundaries of the client.

Overall, conducting a land survey is always recommended for any construction work. It guarantees that all development jobs are within the land boundaries of the client. In addition, we should also put into mind that a contractor has the right to request for a land survey before doing any work, because he is legally responsible and liable for any unauthorized work made on another property.

5 Reasons for Conducting a Survey Prior to Any Construction Work

• Contractors are not surveyors and may not be accurate in determining your lot lines unless there is a survey record of your property that they can use as a guideline.

• Construction materials are expensive and a miscalculation of constructing improvements to your neighbor’s property will result in wasted materials.

• A survey assures that all new improvements are done within the boundaries of your property.

• A survey can determine right of way and utility easements that are located on your property.

• A very useful tool for avoiding lawsuits and settling neighbor disputes.

Key Takeaway:

• The contractor should be able to conclude if a land survey is needed prior to construction and may include it in the proposed contract of agreement and cost estimate for the construction work.

• Conducting a land survey is always recommended for any construction work. It guarantees that all development jobs are within the land boundaries of the client.

  Image Courtesy of: freedigitalphotos.net