Land surveys are used by a wide range of professionals to identify important characteristics regarding a certain parcel of land. There are different types of surveys available. Each survey provides specific details, but these details are presented in a unique way.
Topographic land surveys contain three specific elements that set them apart from other types of land surveys. Learn more about these three elements to determine if a topographic survey will meet your needs.
1. Benchmarks
Benchmarks play an important role in topographic land surveys. A benchmark is essentially a base elevation that serves as the foundation for the entire land survey. The benchmark is typically an existing feature on the property whose elevation is known. All other features within the parcel will be compared against the benchmark when drafting a topographical survey.
It's important that you work with an experienced surveyor who can establish a viable benchmark if you want a topographical survey to be accurate.
2. Elevation
Elevation is a measure of the height of various features on a parcel of land. Elevation is typically expressed as a number of feet above sea level.
Topographical surveys express elevation using one of two methods: assigned elevation and actual elevation.
Assigned elevation occurs when a surveyor sets the elevation of the benchmark themselves. A common benchmark measurement used by surveyors is 100 feet above sea level, but this benchmark can vary in high-elevation areas.
Actual elevation utilizes government data to establish a benchmark. GPS, state plane coordinates, or FEMA measurements are commonly consulted when it comes to establishing actual elevation.
Both actual and assigned elevations can provide valuable information when drafting a topographical survey.
3. Contour Lines
Contour lines are one of the most recognizable elements of a topographic survey. Changes in elevation are indicated by contour lines on a topographic survey.
It can be beneficial to understand how a property changes in elevation when planning a construction project. Contour lines can indicate where a property slopes and dips. Having this information prior to construction allows contractors to determine what type of land preparation will be required. If extensive clearing is required to level the parcel, the costs associated with construction can increase. A topographic survey gives contractors the ability to better prepare estimates for their customers.
A topographic land survey that includes an accurate benchmark, elevation, and contour lines can provide valuable information about any parcel of land.
Contact a local land surveying service to learn more about topographic land surveys.