FAQ
Land Survey FAQ
General questions
What is a boundary survey?
A boundary survey shows exactly where your property lines are. A licensed land surveyor researches the deed and recorded plat, measures on site, finds or sets the corner markers, and gives you a signed drawing of the lines and anything near them, like fences or sheds.
How do I get a survey of my property?
Send one request with your address, the type of survey and your timeline. Survey Coordinator matches you with a licensed land surveyor who works in your area. The surveyor confirms the price and schedule with you, does the work, and delivers the survey directly to you.
How much does a land survey cost?
There's no single price. Cost depends on the type of survey, the size and shape of the property, the terrain and trees, how easy the old records and corner markers are to find, and how soon you need it. The surveyor gives you a quote before any work starts.
What is an ALTA survey?
An ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey is a detailed survey built to national standards set by the American Land Title Association and the National Society of Professional Surveyors. It's mostly used for commercial real estate and shows boundaries, buildings, access, easements and title matters that lenders and title companies need.
How do I get an elevation certificate for flood insurance?
Start by asking your city or county floodplain office whether one is already on file for your building. If not, request an elevation certificate here and we'll match you with a licensed surveyor who measures your building's elevations and completes and signs the FEMA form for your insurance agent.
How long does a survey take?
It depends on the type of survey, the size of the property, the weather and the surveyor's schedule. A simple residential survey is usually much quicker than an ALTA or topographic survey of a large site. Include your deadline in your request and the surveyor will confirm timing with you.
Does Survey Coordinator do the survey?
No. Survey Coordinator is a coordination and referral service. Every survey is performed by an independent, licensed professional land surveyor in your state. We find and match the right surveyor so you don't have to call around.
Is there a cost to request a quote?
Sending a request doesn't commit you to anything. The surveyor provides the quote, and you decide whether to go ahead.
Who are the surveyors in your network?
Network surveyors are independent professional land surveyors who hold an active license in the state where the property is located. They choose the requests they want to take on and work directly with you.
What if you don't cover my area yet?
Send your request anyway. We're adding licensed surveyors to the network as we grow, and we'll let you know quickly whether we can match your request.
Boundary Survey
Is a boundary survey the same as a property line survey?
Yes. People use "boundary survey" and "property line survey" for the same thing: a survey that locates and marks the legal lines of your lot.
Will the surveyor mark the lines on the ground?
Surveyors find or set the corner markers (usually iron pins). Many can also flag or stake points along the line for a fence. Mention it in your request so the surveyor includes it in the quote.
Can I use an old survey instead?
Sometimes. If nothing has changed and the old survey is recent, it may be enough for a permit. For a fence or dispute, most people get a current survey so the corners are verified on the ground today.
Property Survey
What's the difference between a property survey and a boundary survey?
A boundary survey focuses on locating and marking the lines. A property survey usually includes the lines plus the buildings, fences and other improvements on the lot. Your surveyor will tell you which one fits your situation.
Do I need a survey to buy a house?
Not always, but many lenders and title companies require one, and it's the best way to spot encroachments or easement problems before you close. Check with your lender or title company early so the survey is ready on time.
How do I get a survey of my property?
Send a request with your address and what you need it for. We match you with a licensed surveyor who works in your area, and they quote and schedule the work with you directly.
Elevation Certificate
How do I get an elevation certificate for flood insurance?
First check with your community's floodplain office — they sometimes keep certificates on file for existing buildings. If there isn't one, send us a request and we'll match you with a licensed surveyor who completes elevation certificates in your area.
Can an elevation certificate lower my flood insurance?
It can, but it depends on how your building's elevations compare with the flood level for your zone. Your insurance agent uses the certificate to rate your policy.
Who can complete an elevation certificate?
FEMA allows a licensed land surveyor, engineer or architect authorized by state law to certify elevation information. Surveyors are the most common choice because they measure elevations on site.
ALTA Survey
What is an ALTA survey?
It's a land title survey that meets the ALTA/NSPS minimum standards. It's mostly used for commercial real estate and shows boundaries, improvements, easements and title matters in a consistent format lenders and title companies rely on.
What are Table A items?
Table A is a list of optional extras — like flood zone, building area, parking counts, utilities or zoning — that the client or lender can ask the surveyor to include. They affect the scope and price, so share your lender's list early.
How far ahead should I order an ALTA survey?
As early as you can in the contract period. ALTA surveys need the title commitment and more field and office time than a typical residential survey, so ask the surveyor to confirm timing against your closing date.
Topographic Survey
Does a topographic survey show property lines?
Not always. Many projects need both, so surveyors often combine a boundary survey and a topographic survey. Tell the surveyor what the survey is for and they'll recommend the right combination.
What file formats will I get?
Usually a signed PDF and a CAD file (like DWG) for your architect or engineer. Ask for the format your designer needs when you request the quote.
Get a Survey Quote
One simple request. A licensed local surveyor follows up — no calling around.