Surveying is the process of measuring and mapping the Earth’s surface using various methods and instruments. Surveying is essential for many fields of human activity, such as land management, construction, engineering, mapping, and planning. There are different types of surveys that serve specific purposes and require different techniques and tools. In this article, we will discuss some of the common types of surveys used in geography and provide examples of situations where each type would be most appropriate and their applications.
Boundary survey1: A boundary survey determines the legal boundaries and corners of a property based on the deed document and other evidence. It also shows the location and extent of any easements, encroachments, or restrictions that affect the property. A boundary survey is useful for settling property disputes, buying or selling land, subdividing land, or building fences or structures near the property line. Boundary surveys are also important for land reform and management, as they help to establish the ownership and rights of landholders and prevent land conflicts.
Topographic survey23: A topographic survey maps the natural and artificial features of a land area, such as hills, valleys, rivers, buildings, roads, etc. It also shows the elevation and contour of the land surface, which indicate the shape and slope of the terrain. A topographic survey is useful for planning and designing projects that involve earthwork, drainage, landscaping, or environmental impact assessment. Topographic surveys are also essential for urban and regional planning, as they provide the basis for creating maps, zoning regulations, land use policies, and infrastructure development.
ALTA/NSPS survey13: An ALTA/NSPS survey is a type of boundary survey that follows the standards set by the American Land Title Association and the National Society of Professional Surveyors. It provides a comprehensive report of the property’s legal status, physical condition, and potential risks. It also includes a detailed map of the property and its surroundings, showing all the relevant features, such as buildings, utilities, roads, water bodies, etc. An ALTA/NSPS survey is useful for obtaining title insurance, securing loans, or conducting due diligence for real estate transactions. ALTA/NSPS surveys are also beneficial for investment and valuation purposes, as they help investors to evaluate the market value and profitability of a property.
Construction survey24: A construction survey is a type of engineering survey that guides the execution of a construction project. It involves setting out the points, lines, and levels that define the location, alignment, and elevation of the structures to be built. It also involves monitoring and verifying the accuracy and quality of the construction work. A construction survey is useful for building roads, bridges, buildings, pipelines, dams, etc. Construction surveys are also important for infrastructure management and development, as they ensure that the structures are built according to the design specifications and safety standards.
Location survey3: A location survey is a type of survey that shows the position and dimensions of a specific feature or object on the ground, such as a building, a monument, a tree, etc. It also shows the relationship of the feature or object to the property boundaries and other nearby features or objects. A location survey is useful for identifying and documenting the existing conditions of a site, such as for historical preservation, environmental protection, or legal purposes. Location surveys are also useful for natural resource management, as they help to locate and monitor the distribution and status of natural resources, such as water, minerals, wildlife, etc.
Site planning survey3: A site planning survey is a type of survey that provides the information and analysis needed for planning and designing a development project on a site. It combines the elements of a boundary survey, a topographic survey, and a location survey, and may also include additional data, such as soil testing, zoning regulations, traffic studies, etc. A site planning survey is useful for preparing a site plan, a blueprint that shows the proposed layout, features, and functions of the site. Site planning surveys are also essential for land development and real estate, as they help to optimize the use and value of the land and comply with the legal and environmental requirements.
Subdivision survey13: A subdivision survey is a type of survey that divides a large tract of land into smaller parcels or lots for sale or development. It also establishes the legal boundaries, corners, and areas of the parcels or lots, and shows the location and dimensions of the roads, utilities, easements, and other common facilities that serve the subdivision. A subdivision survey is useful for creating a plat, a map that shows the subdivision plan and its legal description. Subdivision surveys are also important for land management and reform, as they help to allocate and distribute the land among different owners and users.
These are some of the types of surveys commonly used in geography, but there are many more types and variations of surveys that suit different needs and situations. Surveying is a complex and diverse field that requires specialized knowledge, skills, and equipment. Surveyors are professionals who are trained and licensed to perform surveys and provide reliable and accurate results. Surveying is an important and valuable service that contributes to the development and management of the human environment.
