Importance and Uses of Marking Property Corners

Importance and Uses of Marking Property Corners

There are several concepts that may be vital during any kind of property boundary survey or related kind of measurement being taken on your property, and marking property corners is a common example here. There are a number of cases or situations where marking property boundaries is a major necessity, and this is a job that a professional land surveyor will be able to assist you with.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we’re here to offer a wide range of residential land surveying services, including boundary surveys, ALTA land surveys, and more for clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah. Here are some of the settings where marking property corners is often a vital need, plus why you should always be working with a reliable professional land surveyor for any such project.

Importance and Uses of Marking Property Corners

Compliance With Municipal or Building Code Requirements for Construction

For many construction projects, providing a boundary survey with accurate property lines might be required in order to obtain a building permit. This is especially true in Salt Lake City and the greater Salt Lake County area.

A land surveyor can accurately determine the boundaries of the property and help ensure that all construction plans are within the property boundaries, and adhere to any setback or building location requirements. At Diamond Land Surveying our boundary surveys are used regularly by clients who are in the process of working with the city and county to submit their design plans.

Avoiding Property Disputes

Another common reason for marking property boundaries is to avoid potential disputes with neighbors. Without clear and accurate boundaries, there may be confusion or disagreements about where one person’s property ends and another’s begins. This can lead to conflicts over the placement of fences or structures, access to property, easement locations, or use of shared spaces.

A professional land surveyor will use precise measurements combined with deed and document research to establish accurate boundaries of the property, eliminating the risk of potential disputes or misunderstandings. This can save both time and money in the long run, as legal battles over property boundaries can be costly and emotionally draining.

Critical Measurements

When looking to obtain information like the total land area of a property or various other specific measurements, a professional land surveyor can also be very helpful. In addition to marking boundaries, a surveyor can provide accurate measurements of specific locations or features on the property.

This information is often important for builders, developers, and architects when planning new construction projects or making changes to existing structures. They will use these measurements to plan for the placement of new buildings, roads, or utilities in a way that ensures your new project falls within your property lines or building setback requirements

Protecting Property Value

In many cases, the process of marking property boundaries can also help protect the value of your property. By having a professional land surveyor establish and mark accurate boundaries, you can ensure that no one is encroaching on your land or making changes to it without your knowledge. This can prevent any potential loss of property or decrease in its value due to unauthorized use or construction.

For instance, if you’re planning to sell your property in the future, having a recent survey and accurate boundaries can make it more attractive to potential buyers who are looking for clear and well-defined property lines. This can also help you avoid any legal issues or disputes during the selling process.

Ensuring Accuracy

Working with a professional land surveyor ensures that your understanding of property measurements and markings are clear and accurate. Land surveyors undergo rigorous training and certification in order to accurately measure and determine property boundaries, ensuring that their work is reliable and can be trusted should they become a part of legal proceedings.

Additionally, land surveyors use advanced tools such as GPS technology to ensure precise measurements. This level of accuracy is crucial when it comes to property boundaries, as even a small error can have significant consequences.

As you can see, marking property boundaries is not just a simple task, but one that requires expertise and precision. By working with a professional land surveyor, you can ensure that all necessary measurements and markings are done accurately and in compliance with legal requirements. This will not only save you time and money but also give you peace of mind knowing that your property is protected.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we have a team of experienced professional surveyors who are dedicated to providing the highest quality land surveying services. Whether you need a boundary survey, ALTA/NSPS land title survey, or any other type of property measurement, we have the knowledge and tools to get the job done right. Contact us today for more information about our services and how we can assist you, whether you’re in Salt Lake City or anywhere in the state of Utah.

How Land Surveyors Help With Boundary Disputes

land surveyors boundary disputes

While we all naturally hope to have great relationships with our neighbors that are never interrupted by any issues, certain property-related concerns may arise that require some attention. One good example here, one that will sometimes involve contention but often can be managed in simple and friendly ways, is a boundary dispute between two neighboring property owners.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we’re happy to provide the very best residential boundary surveys and other land surveying services you’ll find in Salt Lake City and the state of Utah. Our services assist clients with a wide range of needs, including for official boundary disputes that cannot be resolved between the two property owners. Here are some of the reasons boundary disputes can take place, some situations where calling in a professional land surveyor will be helpful here, and the important roles a land surveyor will play in helping provide the proper information to resolve these disputes.

land surveyors boundary disputes

Why Boundary Disputes Happen

There are a few common reasons why boundary disputes occur between neighbors, including:

  • Fence placement: Fences are generally a good way to mark your boundaries with neighboring properties. However, if there is any disagreement about where the property line actually falls, disputes can arise.
  • Unclear deed descriptions: Sometimes property deeds may have unclear or incomplete descriptions of the exact boundaries of a parcel. This can create confusion in the future and lead to disputes down the road.
  • Land use changes: When one neighbor decides to change how they are using their land, questions can arise about the boundaries with neighboring properties. This may include building new structures, changing landscaping or altering access routes.

When to Call in a Professional Land Surveyor

In certain cases, boundary disputes can easily enough be remedied between the two property owners. Especially if you’re on good terms with your neighbors, you may be able to work out a solution that satisfies both parties. However, in other situations, calling in a professional land surveyor is the best route to take. Here are some examples where this might be necessary:

  • Legal proceedings: If the dispute reaches a point where legal action is being taken by one or both property owners, having an accurate and unbiased land survey can be crucial evidence in court.
  • Disputed fence placement: If the dispute is specifically related to a fence that one neighbor has placed, having a professional land surveyor determine where the actual property line falls can help resolve this issue.
  • Unclear deed descriptions: As mentioned above, unclear descriptions on deeds can lead to disputes. A professional land surveyor can help clear up any confusion and provide accurate boundary information.

The Role of a Land Surveyor in Boundary Disputes

So what exactly will a land surveyor do if you call them in to help with a boundary dispute? Here are some of the key tasks they will handle:

  • Research: The first step for a land surveyor will be researching property records and documents to determine the exact boundaries in question. This may involve examining deeds, plats, and other land records.
  • Site visit: Next, the surveyor will visit both properties in question to conduct a survey. They will use specialized equipment to measure and mark the boundaries accurately.
  • Provide reports: Once the survey is complete, the land surveyor will provide a detailed report outlining their findings. This will include maps and diagrams to help show the boundary lines clearly, called a Record of Survey or Plat.
  • Expert testimony: In some cases, a land surveyor may be called upon to provide expert testimony in court regarding their findings. This is especially common in disputes that reach legal proceedings.

Surveyors Provide Information; They Don’t Take “Sides”

One important note to keep in mind for any property owner in a boundary dispute: Land surveyors are strictly neutral and unbiased. They do not take sides or favor one property owner over another. Their job is simply to provide accurate information about the boundaries in question, based on their research and site visit.

With this objective approach, they can help resolve disputes fairly and amicably between neighbors. They are also trained to handle any potential conflicts that may arise during the survey process, ensuring that it is completed smoothly and professionally.

So if you find yourself in a boundary dispute with your neighbor, don’t hesitate to contact Diamond Land Surveying for professional assistance. Our experienced team can provide the accurate information and documentation you need to resolve the issue and maintain positive relationships with your neighbors. Get in touch with us to learn about these or any of our other land surveying services across SLC and the state of Utah!

Preparation Tips Ahead of a Land Survey

preparation tips land survey

Preparation is often important for a variety of tasks or processes that may be completed on or around your property, and an upcoming land survey is a great example. Depending on the type of survey you’ve ordered, there may be a few things you need to do to prepare for a land survey, whether we’re talking about site prep, advanced research or other areas. 

At Diamond Land Surveying, we offer a huge range of boundary surveys, ALTA surveys, subdivision surveys and other land surveying solutions to clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah. While the specifics will vary with each individual survey need, here are some of the general preparation elements you may need to think about ahead of any survey you’ve ordered.

preparation tips land survey

Gathering All Land Documentation

Firstly, before you even contact us to schedule a land survey, it’s important to gather all relevant documentation related to your property. This may include any previous surveys, deeds, property records or plats. 

Having this information on hand will help our team better understand the history and boundaries of your property, making for a more efficient and accurate survey process. It will also save time and potentially avoid any potential legal disputes in the future.

Estimate and Survey Type Decision

Once you have all your documentation in order, our team will work with you to determine the type of survey that best fits your needs. This may depend on a variety of factors such as property size, intended use, and potential boundary disputes.

Depending on your specific goals and budget, we will provide you with a detailed estimate outlining the cost and scope of work for your land survey. With this estimate, you should also receive a timeframe for when the survey will be completed, allowing you to plan accordingly.

Paperwork

In most cases, there will be some paperwork involved before the land survey can begin. This may include obtaining necessary permits from your local government or homeowners association, if applicable.

Our team will handle all of the necessary paperwork and ensure that everything is in order prior to beginning any survey work. We understand that navigating local regulations and requirements can be overwhelming, so we strive to make this process as simple and stress-free as possible. While there may be documents for you to fill out and sign, we will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Site Preparation

Depending on the type of survey being conducted, there may be some site preparation required. This may include several different areas:

  • Clearing vegetation: If your property is overgrown with trees, brush, or other vegetation, it may need to be cleared in order for our team to access and properly survey the land.
  • Access points: We will work with you to determine the best access points on your property for conducting the survey. These may include gates, fences, or driveways that need to be opened or removed temporarily.
  • Property boundaries: It’s important to have a clear understanding of your property boundaries before the survey begins. If there are any unclear or disputed boundaries, our team will work with you and neighboring property owners to resolve these issues.
  • Hazards: If there are any potential hazards on your property, such as steep inclines, unstable terrain, or utilities, it’s important to alert our team beforehand. This will help us plan accordingly and ensure the safety of everyone involved.

By following these suggested preparations before your land survey with Diamond Land Surveying, you can help make the process smoother and more efficient for both yourself and our team.

Regular Communication With Surveyor(s)

Leading up to the survey and throughout the process, it’s important to maintain open and regular communication with our team. This allows for any questions or concerns to be addressed promptly and ensures that all parties are on the same page.

For instance, if there are any changes or developments on your property that may affect the survey, it’s important to inform our team as soon as possible. This could include new constructions, land alterations, or boundary disputes with neighboring properties.

Preparation is key for a successful land survey. By gathering all necessary documentation, deciding on the appropriate survey type and preparing the site for our team, you can help ensure an accurate and efficient survey process. And with open communication throughout the process, we can work together to overcome any challenges that may arise. 

Let Diamond Land Surveying assist you in preparing for your upcoming land survey – contact us today! We assist clients around SLC and other parts of Utah with all their land surveying needs, whether residential, commercial or otherwise.

Land Surveyors Vs Assistant Land Surveyors

land surveyors vs assistant

Many fields that involve extensive training and experience requirements will carry multiple roles or titles depending on an individual’s progression, and a great example here is the realm of land surveying. There are a few distinct roles within the land surveying industry, and two common ones that are worth understanding the differences between are licensed land surveyors versus assistant land surveyors.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we’re here to offer a huge range of land surveying services to clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, from boundary surveys to ALTA surveys, lot consolidations, subdivision surveys and more. While all of our jobs are carried out by fully licensed land surveyors, assistant land surveyors who are part of our company may also be present at times – let’s go over some of the key factors that differentiate these two parties, the role that licensed land surveyors play for assistant land surveyors, and what clients should know about interacting with each of these parties.

land surveyors vs assistant

Mentorship is Vital in Land Surveying

Like many other industries where formal education, apprenticeships and professional progression play a role, mentorship is considered a vital part of the land surveying field. In fact, this is often how individuals progress from one level to another – assistant land surveyors begin as apprentices under licensed land surveyors, then work their way up through experience and further training.

This mentoring process ensures that all parties are fully familiar with the latest technology, best practices and legal standards within land surveying. It also allows for the sharing of valuable knowledge and experience between licensed land surveyors and their assistants, as well as providing opportunities for assistant land surveyors to take on more responsibility and advance in their careers.

Education and Training Levels

As you may have already assumed from reading to this point, fully licensed land surveyors have completed significantly more education and training than assistant land surveyors. These individuals have typically obtained a bachelor’s degree in land surveying or a related field, as well as completing extensive on-the-job training and passing a state-specific licensing exam. This allows them to work independently and provide survey services to clients in various areas.

Assistant land surveyors may also have a formal education background in the field, but are not yet licensed and therefore do not hold the same level of responsibility as licensed land surveyors. They must work under the supervision of a licensed land surveyor, and depending on their state’s regulations they may be allowed to perform certain types of surveys or assist with others.

Supervision

As we’ve alluded to here, assistant land surveyors will always operate under the direct supervision of a licensed land surveyor. This means that they cannot make any final decisions or sign off on surveys unless it is approved by their supervising licensed land surveyor.

This system is in place to protect both clients and the assistant land surveyors themselves, making sure that all work meets legal standards and requirements while also giving assistants an opportunity to learn from their more experienced colleagues. It allows for a safe and efficient working environment, aiding in the development of highly skilled land surveyors over time.

Legal Authority and Responsibilities

Another major difference between licensed land surveyors and assistant land surveyors is the legal authority they hold in their roles. As mentioned, fully licensed land surveyors are responsible for signing off on surveys and ensuring that all work meets required standards set by state regulations. They also have the authority to create and stamp official documents such as ALTA surveys.

Assistant land surveyors, while still highly trained and knowledgeable, do not hold this same legal authority. They may assist in the process of creating surveys and collecting data, but they cannot make final decisions or sign off on official documents.

Interacting With Both Parties

Both licensed land surveyors and assistant land surveyors play important roles in providing accurate and reliable surveys to clients, but as mentioned above it’s important to understand that they have different levels of responsibility within the industry. Clients should be aware that while assistant land surveyors are highly skilled and knowledgeable, they must work under the supervision of a licensed land surveyor who ultimately holds the legal authority for all surveys provided.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we pride ourselves on ensuring all of our clients receive high-quality, accurate surveys from experienced professionals. Our team includes both licensed land surveyors and experienced assistant land surveyors, all of whom work together to provide a wide range of surveying services. Whether you’re in need of a boundary survey for your property or an ALTA survey for a commercial development project, we are here to help. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you with your next project in SLC or any nearby part of Utah.

Major Risks of DIY Land Survey Attempts

risks DIY land survey

While there are a number of areas of our lives where do-it-yourself (DIY) efforts can be prudent and help save both time and money, there are also others where work should typically be left to professionals for a few important reasons. The realm of land surveying is one such example – these kinds of projects should virtually never be attempted by anyone other than land survey professionals, and there are several specific reasons for this. 

At Diamond Land Surveying, we’re here to offer the very best land surveying services around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, offering both residential and commercial surveys, construction staking services, lot consolidation plats and much more. Here are some of the major risks that are present for any non-land surveying professional attempting a DIY land survey project on their own, plus why you’ll be saving everything from time and money to hassle and peace-of-mind by hiring professionals for any such need. 

risks DIY land survey

Legal Requirements

First and foremost, there are a large number of land survey settings in which a professional survey is required by law. While laws on this front vary from state to state, most areas require that land surveys be completed for any new construction, property line disputes, or similar reasons.

Attempting these tasks without the proper legal requirements in place could lead to serious issues down the line, including costly legal battles and even potential fines. For instance, if your new construction project ends up encroaching on a neighbor’s property due to an incorrect survey, you could be dealing with expensive legal consequences.

Technical Expertise

Land surveying is a highly technical field that requires extensive knowledge and skill in order to produce accurate results. Professionals have undergone years of education and training to become qualified in this field, and they utilize state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure precision.

Without the necessary technical expertise, attempting a DIY land survey is likely to result in inaccurate measurements and unreliable data. This can lead to significant problems for any future development or property transactions.

Safety Concerns

Land surveying involves working in potentially hazardous conditions, such as steep slopes, dense vegetation, or busy construction sites. Professionals are trained and equipped to handle these risks, while a DIY surveyor may not have the necessary safety training or equipment.

In addition to potential personal injury, there is also the risk of causing damage to surrounding property or infrastructure. Hiring professionals ensures that all necessary precautions are taken to protect both people and property.

Familiarity With Technology

As we alluded to above, land surveying professionals use advanced equipment and technology to produce accurate results. This includes GPS systems, laser scanners, and other specialized tools that are not typically available to the general public.

Attempting a DIY land survey without this technology can result in inaccurate measurements and unreliable data. By hiring professionals, you can be confident that your project will be completed with the most precise and up-to-date methods available.

Working With Other Entities

Furthermore, anytime other professional entities will be involved in your land surveying project, it’s vital to have a qualified and experienced professional leading the way. This could include architects, engineers, or governmental agencies.

Professional land surveyors are familiar with the processes and requirements of these other entities and can effectively coordinate with them to ensure a successful outcome for your project. Attempting a DIY land survey without this knowledge and experience could lead to delays, misunderstandings, and ultimately, a botched project.

Speed of Work

Speaking of delay avoidance, let’s consider the overall speed of work for a land survey project. With professionals, you can be confident that your project will be completed in a timely manner, as they have the necessary experience and resources to efficiently handle all aspects of the job.

On the other hand, a DIY land survey can often be time-consuming and may result in multiple delays due to lack of expertise or equipment. By hiring professionals, you can save yourself the frustration and wasted time of attempting to do it on your own.

While DIY projects can be a great way to save money and learn new skills, there are certain tasks that should be left to trained professionals for the sake of accuracy, safety, and efficiency. When it comes to land surveying, it’s always best to rely on experienced professionals like the team at Diamond Land Surveying for all your survey needs around SLC and other parts of Utah. Trust us to get the job done right and save yourself time, money, and potential legal troubles in the long run. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a consultation!

Value of Land Surveyors When Subdividing Property

land surveyors subdividing property

There are a number of processes that are often carried out for larger tracts of property or land, and one that’s very common among land owner, developers and other related professionals is the need to subdivide property. Referring to any process that splits one property into two or more smaller properties, subdividing is incredibly common – it’s best-known in popular culture for its creation of “subdivisions” for homes, but has many further uses as well.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we’re happy to offer the very best land surveying services for clients in Salt Lake City and the state of Utah, including services like subdivision surveys to help with any subdividing process you’re looking to carry out. Here are some of the primary ways our land surveyors provide value when it comes to subdividing needs.

land surveyors subdividing property

Meeting City and County Regulatory Compliance Application Requirements

As mentioned, it’s also incredibly important for any subdivision project to be meet compliant with all relevant city and county application zoning regulations in the area requirements – and that’s where our land surveyors can help. We work directly with you and city or county staff to ensure that your subdivision meets code requirements. Subdividing can be a confusing process to work through, but we’re here to assist you each step of the way. It’s really common for city and county reviewers to make added requests or “redline” changes to your submission – but rest assured, we’ll work with them to make the adjustments they require. By taking detailed measurements of the property, its features and its boundaries, we provide a reliable record of what’s exactly in place – which helps ensure that there are no issues later on.

In addition, our surveyors will can provide a detailed boundary survey of the current configuration and makeup of your property. This is almost always a requirement of local government planners and zoning specialists. reports of their findings that can be used to file for the relevant permits and authorizations required for any subdividing process. This ensures that no time is wasted in the event of regulatory compliance issues further down the line – making it easier to get on with the project at hand.

Accurate, Precise Measurements

Another major benefit of working with our land surveyors is the fact that we provide accurate measurements for property boundaries. We use modern technology to ensure that every single measurement taken is as precise and reliable as possible – so you can be sure that any subdividing process will go ahead without a hitch.

In addition, our surveyors also take detailed records of the locations of any features that may be present on the property, such as trees or buildings – so there’s no confusion further down the line.

Optimizing New Parcel Layout

Especially if you have a large tract of land you’re dividing into several smaller pieces, but even if you’re just splitting a single property into two, our surveyors can help with optimizing the layout of any new parcels. This can include using measurements and calculations to ensure that each parcel has then optimal size you’re looking to create- while also keeping things as equitable as possible amongst all parties involved.

Without professional assistance, it can be hard to work out the best possible layout for any new parcels – but by working with qualified surveyors, it’s easier than ever to produce a subdivided property that works perfectly for everyone involved.

Resolving Any Boundary Disputes Quickly

There are only a few things that can slow down a subdividing process for any property, and one of them is a boundary dispute. In some cases, the lines of property ownership may not be as clear-cut as you or other parties believed them to be – and that’s where our land surveyors can help.

By providing an accurate representation of any boundaries involved in the subdividing process, it’s possible to quickly resolve any disputes between related parties before they become too severe. This can also provide you with a better understanding of what exactly you’re purchasing and its associated boundaries – so there are no surprises further down the line.

Financial Peace of Mind

Another benefit of working with our surveyors is the fact that we provide financial peace of mind. We offer highly competitive rates for our activities – so you can be sure that you’re getting a fair price for your subdivision project.

In addition, by providing accurate measurements and detailed reports on our findings, you can  avoid potentially expensive boundary disputes further down the line – and that can save a lot of money in the long run.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we’re proud to provide top quality land surveying services for clients around Salt Lake City and all of Utah – including subdivision surveys for those looking to subdivide property. With accurate measurements, detailed surveys and our hands-on approach to working with local municipalities, it’s easier than ever to ensure that any subdividing process is successful and cost-effective. Reach out to us today to learn more about what we have to offer, whether here or in any other residential or commercial land surveying need.

How to Find a Land Survey for Any Property

how find land survey

There are a number of settings where you may need to access a prior land survey of some kind that was carried out on a given property or area of land, from potential purchases to municipal changes, commercial needs and more. If this is the case, how should you be going about identifying and locating the required survey(s)?

At Diamond Land Surveying, we’re proud to assist clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah with all their land survey needs, including residential surveys, commercial surveys and many other varieties. Here’s a brief primer on where land surveys go once they’re taken, who holds their records, and how you can go about obtaining them for any kind of need.

how find land survey

Who Holds Land Survey Records

Generally speaking, three parties will hold records of a given land survey: The surveyor who performed the survey, the person or entity who hired them to perform the survey, or the county surveyor or recorder’s office. As a general rule, county records offices will only maintain copies of surveys if they’ve been filed by the professional surveyor who performed the service or their client..

Conversely, if you’re looking for an older land survey record from many years ago, your best bet may be to look up the original surveying firm (if one is still in business). Naturally, older records may involve a bit more legwork, but they can still be accessed by making contact with the surveying firm or registered surveyor themself.

County Surveyor

Many survey records are held by the local county surveyor’s office. In the state of Utah, surveyors who are hired to document or establish property boundaries should file a survey with the county within 90 days of completion of the project. Larger counties, such as Salt Lake or Utah County, have a surveyor’s office who receive and maintain filed survey plats. Finding surveys may take some legwork. Each county surveyor’s office in Utah has a separate system for maintaining and accessing a record of survey. A county might have online access to the records or it might require a physical visit to their office to gain access to them

Recorder’s Office

In smaller counties, the county recorder may be the office for filing and maintaining a record of survey. Often, they may be able to help you locate a land survey record. This is especially true for surveys done within the past few decades, since recorder’s offices started creating digitized copies of recorded documents.

With the recorder’s office, similar to county surveyor’s office, you will have to look into specific site listings to figure out which surveys are being held.

Planning and Zoning Department

If neither of these sources yield satisfactory results, you may also need to contact the planning and zoning department in your city. This is especially true if you’re looking for a survey that was done as part of a development project or related to land use regulations.

In addition to records held by the recorder’s office, this department can provide access to other documents related to projects that involve permits, such as surveys for construction projects or related to other zoning-related matters.

Unable to Find a Survey

If none of the avenues mentioned above yield the desired survey records, then you may need to order a new survey. However, we recommend inspecting your property for existing corner markers. If a surveyor completed a survey on your property there’s likely property corner monument installations at each corner. They’re normally a piece of rebar with a plastic cap on top showing the professional surveyor’s license number. Locating that number should give you the information you need to contact the county and have them help you track down the surveyor who completed the project. Doing this will allow you to make sure that there are no other surveys that may have been completed previously but have not yet been filed. This extra effort may end up being invaluable if you find the survey records and save yourself the time, effort and money of having a new survey done.

Ordering a New Survey

If all of these efforts fail and you still cannot find a survey record, then you may need to order a new one. The best thing to do is to pick up the phone and talk to experienced land surveyors who can help provide guidance on what needs to be done. They will walk you through the process of acquiring an accurate survey at a reasonable cost.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we have the tools and personnel to handle all your land survey needs throughout Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah. From residential surveys to commercial surveys and other varieties, our team is ready to provide you with an accurate survey that meets all of your needs. Contact us today for more information!

Considering Land Surveys for Home Fence Needs

land surveys fence needs

There are numerous reasons why land surveys might be used within residential properties, and one of the most common and recognizable for many people is with regard to fencing needs. Whether you’re looking to define your property boundaries, mark certain property areas or carry out any other key purpose with your fencing, use of land surveys – both past and present – is a common approach.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we’re here to offer boundary surveying and numerous other residential land surveying solutions in Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah. Here are some of the basics on how to consider past land surveys in these situations (and the possible issues that come with them), plus when new surveys are necessary and what to be thinking about while arranging these.

land surveys fence needs

Finding Original Property Lines

In some cases, you will be able to find the original property lines on your land without any need to source past property surveys. If a prior survey has been conducted, the land surveyor would have used rebar posts to plant into the ground or metal pins drilled into the curb or sidewalk – these should be present at each intersecting corner (with a “surveyor’s corner” monument) and these marks can usually be used to define the property lines.

Beware that in some cases, especially if it’s been a long time since the survey, these may be covered with dirt or vegetation, which could make it difficult to spot them. If you’re having trouble locating these pins, you may need to arrange for a surveyor to come and review the situation – especially if you’re concerned about potential property boundary disputes in future.

Sourcing Past Land Surveys

If you are unable to locate the original boundaries yourself, you may need to look into obtaining past land surveys. These can often be sourced through county records – especially if they have been recorded after the survey was conducted.

If these are not available, then it’s possible that a direct contact may need to be made with any former owner of the property. In some cases, the former owner may have obtained the survey themselves and held onto it for their records, in which case this would be a useful resource to source.

Possible Issues With Past Land Surveys

Now, it’s vital to be aware that just because you’re able to source a prior land survey does not necessarily mean you’ll simply be able to use that for your fence installation 100% of the time. There can be a few issues with these kinds of past surveys, including:

  • Age: In some situations, past surveys may be quite old – meaning that the boundaries could have been shifted due to various factors. This may require an updated survey to be conducted and verified.
  • Inaccuracies: In some cases, the surveyor may not have been as accurate or reliable when conducting their surveying – meaning that there could be inaccuracies in the results. This is why you should always ensure that any past land surveys you use are from a reliable source.
  • Older equipment: Many prior surveys may have been conducted with older equipment (for example, a transit and chain rather than a more modern GPS system). This can make the results less accurate and could result in discrepancies.
  • Changing structures or lines: Over a period of years, it’s possible that structures or lines may have changed – such as a road being built, an irrigation ditch being added, etc. This could affect the original results and mean that it’s necessary to perform a new survey to verify any changes.

Neighbor Considerations

Another key area to consider when determining whether you need new land surveys for a fence installation is what your neighbors are doing. If they also have a new fence being installed, it’s possible they may be getting a survey conducted at the same time – and this could help in terms of accuracy and cost-effectiveness (since you can get multiple lines surveyed in one go).

Similarly, if there has been any dispute over property boundaries in the past, it may be wise to arrange for a survey to ensure that there is no confusion. This could help provide a clear definition of property lines and save any potential disputes down the line.

What to Expect During a New Land Survey

If you do determine that a new land survey is necessary for your fence installation, there are a few key things that you can expect to happen. The exact technology and equipment used for your project will depend on the specific situation, but some general elements of the surveying process include things like sourcing original surveys, researching historical ownership records and deeds, searching for existing property boundary markers, using modern equipment to take measurements, and creating a digital representation of the surveyed area.

Ultimately, it’s important to perform a thorough review of the situation before determining whether you need new land surveys for your fence installation project. While some projects may be able to use prior land surveys, in other cases this is not always possible – in which case arranging for a new survey to be conducted may be the best option. Doing so will help provide accurate results and ensure that your fence is installed correctly, helping you to avoid any potential disputes or issues down the line.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we strive to provide our clients with the best results and services possible. Whether you need a new land survey for a fence installation or any other purpose, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist with your needs in Salt Lake City, or any other part of Utah.

How Land Surveys Are Used to Build a Home

land surveys build home

There are a few areas many people’s minds naturally gravitate toward when they hear the term land surveying, and the construction of a new home is common. Many people are well aware that land surveying is a common process during lot assessment and homebuilding – but you might not necessarily know all the different ways surveying may be helpful in these settings.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we’re happy to offer a wide range of residential property surveys and related services to clients around Salt Lake City, Utah County and other parts of Utah. Here’s a look at the various ways land surveying can be used for homebuilding needs, ensuring that the job is carried out with accurate information and other important facets.

land surveys build home

Construction Prep

Most homes require significant prep ahead of any construction, and there are several ways land surveying can be a valuable asset in this process. The most common is to generate a basic boundary survey of the lot, including the parcel topography, so the site designers and contractors  have an accurate picture of the site. This helps to ensure that everything is properly designed before construction begins – meaning no costly mistakes or delays down the line.

In most cases, civil engineers or architects will request land surveying for a property before a given home design is even produced. They can use this information to create detailed plans and drawings that will ensure everything is built in the correct spot relative to the property. This process may also involve locating underground utilities, which can be important for both safety and design needs.

Property Line Identification

One of the most common uses for residential property surveying is to help identify property lines between adjoining properties. A good land surveyor can help establish the property boundary lines to ensure the overall project stays within the property lines and within required setbacks. This often becomes necessary when an owner is looking to build a fence or other structure – but they want to make sure they’re not encroaching on a neighbor’s property.

Having accurate information from an experienced surveyor is the best way to ensure that everything is done properly and legally, so it’s well worth the investment of time and money. Down the road surveys can also be used to prevent or rectify potential boundary disputes.

Helping With Accurate Land Valuations

Land valuations may also be important during planning or construction processes, and they can be very difficult to get right without the help of a land surveyor. Surveyors are experts in determining precise acreages and other information that can inform the valuation process – giving owners more peace of mind when it comes to their property’s worth.

Without proper surveys here, there’s a risk of over- or under-valuing a property. A land surveyor can help to provide other key details, such as the size of existing structures or features.

Topographical Details

As you might imagine, land surveys are also highly useful in determining topographical details of a given property or lot. This includes things such as elevations and slopes, which can be extremely helpful when designing drainage solutions and other features that require detailed information about the land’s makeup.

This information can also be used to help architects and civil engineers design specific elements of the home. For instance, a slope or elevation may impact where a patio or deck might be placed – and having this information upfront can save a great deal of time and effort during the design process.

Overall, land surveying is an invaluable asset when it comes to construction projects – particularly those related to residential homes. It provides critical details that can help to ensure the project runs as smoothly and cost-effectively as possible, while also helping to guarantee that everything is done safely. With this in mind, it’s essential for any homeowner looking to build on a property to invest in a good land surveyor from the very beginning. Doing so may help mitigate potential risks down the road in several ways.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we specialize in providing the highest quality land surveying services to residential and commercial customers alike. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get your construction project off the ground in Salt Lake City, Utah County or any other location in Utah.

Value of Land Surveying for Road Construction

value land surveying road construction

While many people naturally think of land surveys within specific lots or property areas, they’re also used in many related forms of construction that impact our everyday world. One great example here, and an application of land surveys that is used regularly, is their use for various forms of road construction.

At Diamond Land Surveying, we’re happy to offer the very best construction land surveying services in Boise and other parts of Idaho. When building new roads, municipalities will often rely on land surveyors for a few vital parts of the process – here are some of the most notable to keep in mind.

value land surveying road construction

Initial Location Planning

In many cases, one of the most valuable uses of land surveying is to determine the best possible route for a new road. In this stage, surveyors are used to assess the area in question by identifying the project boundaries, collecting site topography and plotting easements.

There are several forms of survey that might be used here. The topography survey, for instance, is used to determine the contours of the surface – particularly important if there are hills or dips in the ground. Topographical surveys also provide a complete picture of the land, helping to identify any other land features that may need to be addressed, such as man-made structures, rivers or streams, and significant vegeatation .

Property Preservation

Not only do surveyors help to plan out roads, their services can also be invaluable when it comes to preserving any properties that might be impacted by construction. In this case, a surveyor will take measurements of the land and buildings in question, and note down boundary lines and other important details that must be considered before work can begin.

This helps to clarify who owns what – essential when a road has to move through an area with multiple properties, either residential or commercial – and helps to ensure that construction takes place without infringing on the land of adjoining property owners.

Drainage Setups

Another essential role of surveyors in road construction is helping provide data that helps civil engineers in determining how to plan drainage systems. In some roads, the landscape and soil types may be such that drainage is required to prevent flooding or other issues. Surveyors will map the terrain to help determine where water might collecting, as well as any areas where it might be necessary to construct a drainage system for the new road.

Road Layout

Surveyors play a critical role in road construction. Hired in the beginning, surveyors provide the road contractors the precise location of the road pathway, ensuring the road is constructed to the correct elevation and within the established boundaries for the road.

Overall, surveyors play a vital role in road construction – from the planning and design phase, to the physical layout for construction. Their work helps to ensure that the end result is a safe, well-built road that is built in the right location and that can provide easy access for years to come.

For more here, or to learn about any of our land surveying or boundary survey solutions for clients in Boise and nearby parts of Idaho, speak to our team at Diamond Land Surveying today.