Frequently Asked Questions

What is a land survey?

A land survey is a report in the form of a map that shows the location of a parcel of land. The map also shows the location of visible improvements on and adjacent to the property.

Why are land surveys so important?

Prior to closing on your new home or land purchase, a land survey provides important information to you as the buyer such as the boundaries of the property. The survey will also identify any conflicts in your deed and allows you to see if any improvements such as driveways, fences or wells are encroaching over the property lines.

How is a land survey performed?

The land surveyor’s responsibility is to physically locate the boundaries of the land described in the deed. Thus, extensive data gathering is preformed at and around the site. The surveyor then examines and maps the various visible man-made and natural features required for the particular survey. Finally, the surveyor examines previously recorded deeds and maps along with the information and documentations supplied to the surveyor by the owner or title company. The result is an accurate description of the property’s boundaries and features.

I found a point in the ground with ribbon on it, that’s the corner, right?

Not necessarily. Reference points are used for line of sight measurements by surveyors and often have nothing to do with property lines. Property corner monuments should be clearly identified on both the survey and on the ground.

There is a ribbon tied in a tree, that’s my corner isn’t it?

Not necessarily. Ribbons can be tied to trees and even wooden stakes for many reasons, such as to mark reference points, buried utilities, wells and springs, proposed power lines and even flowers. Many driveways have been built on the assumption that the flagging or ribbon tied in a tree was the property line resulting in having to move the driveway later. For more information, please click below to see the brochure “Facts You Should Know About Having Your Land Surveyed” created by the North Carolina Society of Surveyors, Inc.

Land Survey Facts