When you start a new project, sell property, or purchase a new property, land surveys are an essential part of the process. Boundary surveys are a form of land survey. The difference between the two is mainly in the terms.
You don’t have to invest money into tools and time into learning how to conduct the various types of land surveys that exist. Instead, you should retain a licensed and certified land surveyor in accordance with New York Education Law § 7204 to assist you with your needs.
Understanding What Land Surveys Are
Land survey is a broad term that encompasses various types of surveys, including:
- Boundary surveys
- ALTA/NSPS land title surveys
- Subdivision surveys
- Topographic surveys
As you can see, a boundary survey is a type of land survey. The similarity that exists between a land survey and a boundary survey is that they’re essentially cut from the same cloth. However, despite that, all the land surveys are different because they do and measure different things.
Boundary Surveys Measure Property Lines
A boundary survey measures the property lines of a specific area. In contrast to something like a topographic survey, which measures terrain and elevation, a boundary survey measures distance.
While ALTA/NSPS and subdivision surveys also measure distances, the scope of what they measure and the other procedures involved with them make them inherently different from the average boundary survey.
When You Would Need a Boundary Survey
You would use a boundary survey for several reasons:
- To resolve a property line dispute
- Before selling or purchasing a property
- Before constructing new additions or making any renovations
When you decide to have a boundary survey done, it’s necessary to consult with a professional to do so. The land surveyors at Scalice Land Surveying have the experience and certificate of authorization needed to do your boundary survey.
Understanding Boundary Surveys
Despite being the most basic type of survey, boundary surveys can be complicated to understand to the average person. To know the differences that exist between boundary surveys and other land surveys, you’ll need to know how they work.
How Long Boundary Surveys Take
Compared to more extensive surveys, like ALTA/NSPS land title surveys, boundary surveys don’t take too long. However, don’t expect quick turnaround times regardless. While faster than more extensive surveys, you’re still looking at a week or more for completion. Again, this is mainly due to how boundary surveys get done.
What Is Involved in a Boundary Survey
Unlike topographic surveys, which mainly consist of fieldwork, boundary surveys also require research with local records. Surveyors will take measurements on the field and cross-reference them with historical records to ensure accuracy. Afterward, a final report gets drafted and sent to you.
As you can imagine, depending on the size of your property, it can take some time for all of the work to get completed. So even though the amount of work can be “less,” that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s easier.
Boundary Surveys Are Flexible in Usage
Land surveys aren’t optional in most states, including New York. If you begin a new project, sell your property, or purchase a new property, it’s mandatory to get a land survey done so you can obtain the proper permits and approval from the local government.
While boundary surveys are required in many cases, there are some instances where they’re not. In fact, even if you don’t need a boundary survey done, many people still get one just for peace of mind. In addition, getting a boundary survey done can potentially prevent any major legal issues from forming before they even begin.
Is There Any Difference in Cost?
Boundary surveys tend to be cheaper than more extensive surveys. On average, boundary surveys can run you anywhere from $300 to $800. Remember, these are simply general estimates. Boundary surveys fluctuate in price depending on the size of the property, terrain of the property, the time it takes to research records, and any special requests or additional work you may have.
Because boundary surveys often vary significantly in price depending on the circumstances, there’s no real way to know for sure how much you’ll pay through basic calculation. For a more detailed and precise approximation of how much your boundary survey will cost, it’s best to talk with professionals.
Get a Free Estimate Today
Land surveys and boundary surveys have many differences. If you need help choosing which survey you need for your next project, contact Scalice Land Surveying today. Our professionals can provide you with a free estimate today.
