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Land Survey’s & Checklist

ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey Checklist

General Information

  • Project Name:
  • Property Address:
  • Client Name:
  • Surveyor Name and License Number:
  • Survey Date:
  • Scale of Drawing:

Legal Description

  1. Provide the complete legal description of the property.
  2. Include boundary dimensions and angles, as stated in the title commitment.
  3. Reference adjoining parcels or subdivision information.

Boundary and Dimensions

  1. Confirm and mark all boundary lines with precision.
  2. Locate and document any existing monuments, such as iron rods, pipes, or stakes.
  3. Verify any discrepancies between the legal description and the observed property lines.

Easements and Rights-of-Way

  1. Identify all recorded easements as per the title commitment.
  2. Locate and mark physical evidence of easements (e.g., access roads, utility lines).
  3. Confirm dimensions and purpose of each easement.

Zoning and Land Use

  1. Document the zoning classification of the property.
  2. Note any setback requirements and compliance with zoning codes.
  3. Identify any height restrictions, parking requirements, or special use permits.

Topographic and Terrain Features

  1. Include contour lines to depict elevation changes.
  2. Note the slope and grading of the property.
  3. Mark natural features, such as water bodies, vegetation, or cliffs.

Utilities

  1. Locate and describe utility installations (e.g., power lines, water mains, sewer lines).
  2. Note utility easements and underground utilities, if accessible.
  3. Confirm utility service providers and access points.

Improvements and Encroachments

  1. List all visible structures, including buildings, fences, and walls.
  2. Note encroachments onto or from neighboring properties.
  3. Document compliance with building setbacks and legal boundaries.

Environmental Considerations

  1. Identify any flood zones as per FEMA maps.
  2. Note protected areas, such as wetlands or conservation easements.
  3. Include any observable environmental hazards (e.g., erosion, contamination).

Certification

The surveyor must certify the accuracy of the survey. Typical language includes:
“I hereby certify that this survey was conducted in accordance with the 2021 Minimum Standard Detail Requirements for ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys, jointly established and adopted by ALTA and NSPS.”

  • Surveyor Signature and Seal
  • Date:

This format ensures compliance with ALTA/NSPS standards and is widely accepted in the U.S. for real estate transactions.

Boundary Survey Report

A Boundary Survey Report focuses on identifying and documenting property boundaries, ensuring compliance with legal descriptions. Here’s the typical structure of a Boundary Survey Report form:

General Information

  • Project Name:
  • Property Address:
  • Client Name:
  • Surveyor Name and License Number:
  • Survey Date:
  • Scale of Drawing:

Legal Description

  1. Provide the full legal description of the property, as per the title or deed.
  2. Note reference documents used (e.g., title commitment, previous surveys).
  3. Include a statement indicating if discrepancies were found between the deed and observed boundaries.

Survey Purpose

  • To confirm the precise location of property lines and corners.
  • To identify any encroachments or overlaps with neighboring properties.
  • To establish or verify existing property boundary markers.

Boundary Line Information

  1. Corner Markers: Describe the type, material, and location of all boundary markers (e.g., iron rods, stones, stakes).
  2. Distances and Bearings: Record the lengths and angles of all property lines as measured on-site.
  3. Adjoining Properties: Include information on adjacent parcels, including owner names and deed references.

Easements and Encroachments

  1. Identify any observed or recorded easements that affect the property.
  2. Note any visible encroachments, such as fences, driveways, or buildings extending across property lines.
  3. Describe overlaps or gaps between the subject property and neighboring properties, if applicable.

Structures and Improvements

  1. Document any existing structures near or on the property boundaries.
  2. Confirm compliance with setback requirements based on zoning laws.
  3. Include a sketch or diagram showing the location of structures relative to property lines.

Topographic Features

  1. Highlight any natural features impacting the boundaries, such as rivers, trees, or cliffs.
  2. Note significant grade changes that may affect boundary measurements.

Survey Methods and Equipment

  1. Describe the equipment and methods used to conduct the survey (e.g., total station, GPS).
  2. Note any challenges or limitations encountered during the survey.

Certification

The surveyor must include a certification statement to verify the accuracy of the report:
“I hereby certify that this boundary survey was conducted under my supervision and in accordance with applicable state surveying standards.”

  • Surveyor Signature and Seal
  • Date of Certification:

Attachments

  1. Survey Sketch/Map: A detailed diagram showing property lines, markers, structures, and adjacent properties.
  2. Field Notes: Measurements, observations, and calculations recorded during the survey.
  3. Photographs: Images of boundary markers, encroachments, or notable features.

This Boundary Survey Report ensures clear documentation of property lines and any potential issues, providing legal clarity for property owners and buyers.

Topographic Survey Form

A Topographic Survey Form is used to document the elevation, terrain features, and natural or man-made structures on a property. This form provides essential data for construction, land development, and environmental analysis.

General Information

  • Project Name:
  • Property Address:
  • Client Name:
  • Surveyor Name and License Number:
  • Survey Date:
  • Scale of Drawing:

Purpose of Survey

  • To map the natural and artificial features of the land, including elevations and contours.
  • To support engineering, architectural, or construction planning.
  • To identify terrain features that may impact development or drainage.

Boundary and Dimensions

  1. Property Limits: Confirm and record property boundaries as a reference for topographic data.
  2. Adjoining Properties: Note adjacent property owners and any visible boundary markers.

Elevation and Contours

  1. Contour Lines: Represent changes in elevation using contour intervals appropriate for the project (e.g., 1-foot or 5-foot intervals).
  2. Benchmark Points: Identify and mark benchmarks for reference, including their elevation and location.
  3. High and Low Points: Document the highest and lowest elevations on the property.

Natural Features

  1. Terrain Characteristics: Describe slopes, ridges, and valleys.
  2. Vegetation: Map significant trees, forests, or agricultural areas.
  3. Water Features: Include streams, ponds, drainage ditches, and flood zones.

Man-Made Features

  1. Structures: Locate and describe existing buildings, roads, driveways, and other structures.
  2. Utility Lines: Map visible overhead or underground utilities, including power lines, water mains, and sewage systems.
  3. Pavement and Hardscapes: Identify and document paved areas, retaining walls, and other constructed features.

Drainage and Hydrology

  1. Drainage Patterns: Identify natural drainage paths and artificial drainage systems.
  2. Flood Zones: Note areas susceptible to flooding based on FEMA maps or local data.
  3. Soil Conditions: Include observations of soil type and stability, if relevant.

Survey Methods and Equipment

  1. Instruments Used: Specify surveying tools such as total stations, GPS devices, or drones.
  2. Data Collection Process: Describe methods used to gather and process elevation and feature data.

Deliverables

  1. Topographic Map: A detailed map showing contour lines, features, and elevation data.
  2. Digital Files: Provide CAD or GIS files, if requested by the client.
  3. Field Notes: Include raw data and measurements taken during the survey.

Certification

The surveyor must certify the accuracy of the topographic survey:
“I hereby certify that this topographic survey was conducted under my supervision and complies with applicable professional standards.”

  • Surveyor Signature and Seal
  • Date of Certification:

Attachments

  1. Topographic Map: A scaled drawing showing all elevations, features, and contours.
  2. Photographs: Images of notable terrain features or structures.
  3. Supplementary Data: Any additional data requested by the client, such as subsurface analysis or hydrology reports.

This Topographic Survey Form provides a comprehensive overview of the property’s terrain, supporting critical decision-making for construction and development projects.

Construction Survey Form

A Construction Survey Form is designed to ensure precise measurements and staking for construction projects. It provides essential data for builders, engineers, and developers to align their work with design plans and site requirements.

General Information

  • Project Name:
  • Site Address:
  • Client Name:
  • Surveyor Name and License Number:
  • Survey Date:
  • Contractor/Builder Name:

Purpose of Survey

  • To stake out the location of proposed structures, roads, and utilities.
  • To verify that construction aligns with design plans and legal boundaries.
  • To provide elevation and grading data for site preparation.

Site Preparation

  1. Site Conditions: Document pre-existing site conditions, including vegetation, structures, and debris.
  2. Benchmark and Datum: Establish a reference point (benchmark) for elevation and align with project datum.
  3. Utilities Identification: Map and mark all existing underground and overhead utilities.

Staking and Layout

  1. Building Corners: Stake out the exact location of building corners according to design plans.
  2. Centerlines: Mark the centerlines for roads, driveways, and drainage systems.
  3. Grading Stakes: Place grading stakes at intervals to guide site leveling and earthwork.
  4. Utility Stakes: Stake locations for trenches and utility installations, including water, sewer, and electrical lines.

Elevation and Grading

  1. Finished Floor Elevation: Verify and mark the elevation of finished floors.
  2. Slope and Drainage: Confirm slopes for drainage systems to prevent water pooling.
  3. Cut and Fill Areas: Identify areas requiring excavation (cut) or backfill (fill).

Boundary Verification

  1. Property Lines: Confirm and mark property boundaries to ensure construction stays within limits.
  2. Setback Compliance: Verify compliance with local setback requirements for buildings and other structures.

Roads and Pavement

  1. Curb and Gutter Staking: Mark locations for curbs, gutters, and sidewalks.
  2. Pavement Layout: Stake roadways and parking lot boundaries based on engineering plans.
  3. Elevation Checkpoints: Verify grades and slopes for roadways to ensure proper drainage.

Inspection and Compliance

  1. On-Site Inspection: Conduct periodic inspections to confirm adherence to survey data.
  2. Permits and Regulations: Verify compliance with building permits and local codes.
  3. As-Built Surveys: Document completed construction to compare with original plans.

Survey Methods and Equipment

  1. Instruments Used: Note tools such as total stations, GPS units, or laser levels.
  2. Accuracy Standards: Ensure measurements meet project-specific accuracy requirements (e.g., within 0.01 feet for critical elements).

Certification

The surveyor must certify the accuracy and reliability of the construction survey:
“I hereby certify that this construction survey was conducted in accordance with approved design plans and professional standards.”

  • Surveyor Signature and Seal
  • Date of Certification:

Attachments

  1. Site Plan: A detailed map showing staked locations, boundaries, and features.
  2. Grading Plan: Diagrams highlighting cut and fill areas, finished elevations, and drainage slopes.
  3. Photographs: Visual documentation of staked locations and site conditions.
  4. Field Notes: Record of measurements, calculations, and observations during the survey.

This Construction Survey Form ensures accurate site preparation, layout, and compliance, minimizing errors and delays during the building process. Let me know if you’d like to explore additional templates or enhancements!

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