Land Surveying in Fresno, California
The terms "land survey" and "property survey" are sometimes used interchangeably, and in many contexts, they refer to the same process. Both types of surveys involve the measurement and mapping of land to determine its boundaries, characteristics, and other relevant information. It's essential to understand that terminology and survey requirements can vary depending on local regulations and industry practices. It's advisable to consult with a licensed surveyor, like those at Far & Wide Land Surveying to ensure you obtain the right type of survey for your needs, whether you refer to it as a land survey or a property survey. You may not even know exactly what you need but the key is to communicate your specific expectations and requirements clearly to us to ensure you receive the appropriate surveying services.
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The Basics of a Land Survey?
While the term is used by some as a general phrase to describe numerous specific types of surveys, at the most basic level, a land survey includes conducting research, measuring lines, angles and edges, and recording that info along with the elevations of any property. This will provide you with a document containing as much detail as is needed (depending upon the particular survey) to provide an understanding of the boundaries and aspects of a parcel of land.
Before any field work is done, sometimes step number one is to hit the books...or the city offices. Research of past surveys and records on file for any piece of property can be the starting point for some surveys. If the customer is able to provide this info, it can possibly save time and money but when it's not available, this is part of the work we are accustomed to. Next comes the filed work, where are equipment is taken into action and we spend hours (or days) making measurements and recording all of the details needed to map out boundaries, landmarks, easements, etc. Finally, the records and data we have collected to plugged in to our software and checked again for accuracy. These aren't always as simple as reading a news article so once the survey is delivered to the client, we can explain the details and notations if needed and answer any questions they have.
Although some of this work can be done by you like measuring or looking at historical surveys and records, you'll want the seal of a licensed surveyor in California to legitimize all of the listed information, especially if you are needing your survey to share with business partners, contractors or members of any transaction.
Land surveys play a crucial role in real estate transactions, benefiting both buyers and sellers by providing accurate information about the property being bought or sold. Besides the sale of a residential home, boundary surveys also apply to commercial and industrial properties. Below, you can read a detailed explanation of how land surveys are used during real estate transactions and why they are important for both parties.
For the Buyer:
A land survey precisely defines the boundaries of a piece of property. This information ensures that the buyer is aware of the exact size and shape of the land they are purchasing. It can help to solve any potential disputes with neighbors over boundary lines in the future as well as help prevent them from occurring during the actual transaction.
Land surveys can reveal encroachments, which occur when structures or improvements from neighboring properties extend onto the property being sold. Knowing about encroachments allows the buyer to address these issues before finalizing the purchase or negotiate with the seller for their removal or compensation.
Easements are legal rights that allow someone other than the property owner to use or access the property for a specific purpose, such as utility access or shared driveways. It is a designated space and usually cannot be built on. A land survey will identify existing easements and show their exact location, ensuring the buyer understands any limitations on their property use.
As for zoning compliance, land surveys can help confirm whether the property meets local zoning regulations. This information is vital for buyers who plan to make changes, like large renovations, or additions to the property, ensuring they won't encounter legal issues with the local authorities.
Acquire peace of mind by obtaining a land survey. The buyer gains confidence in the accuracy of the property description and boundary information, reducing the risk of unforeseen issues after the purchase.
For the Seller:
Providing a recent land survey to potential buyers demonstrates transparency and builds trust. By having this done and disclosing it, it shows that the seller is committed to a fair and honest transaction.
A land survey can help sellers justify their asking price by providing precise information about the property's boundaries, size, and any improvements. It can also help in negotiations by clarifying any boundary-related concerns or questions raised by the buyer.
By providing an accurate land survey up-front, the seller reduces the risk of post-sale disputes over boundary issues, encroachments, or easements. This can save both time and money in potential legal battles.
A property with a recent land survey may be more marketable and look more attractive to potential buyers, as it offers a clear understanding of the property's layout and any potential limitations.
In summary
Land surveys are essential in real estate transactions because they provide accurate, objective information about the property's boundaries and potential issues surrounding the property lines. For buyers, nailing down this information ensures they are making a well-informed purchase and protects them from future disputes. For sellers, having a land survey done in advance can enhance the marketability of the property, reduce the risk of legal disputes, and foster trust with potential buyers. In theory, land surveys help contribute to a smoother, more transparent, and successful real estate transaction for all parties involved.
Who Else Uses a Land Survey?
Another category of professionals that require land surveys are city planners, urban developers, and zoning officials. They consistently draw from these surveys to assess the feasibility of land development projects, determine zoning compliance, and make informed decisions about land use.
Agriculture is essential to Fresno with about 200 million acres of farmland in total in the county. Upwards of 300 crops are produced out of this industry annually. Farmers and agricultural professionals use land surveys to plan crop placement, irrigation systems, and drainage solutions. Accurate surveys help optimize agricultural land use making sure these families and companies maximize their properties to the fullest.
With steady growth, another need for surveying is infrastructure development. Civil engineers, transportation planners, and utility companies depend on land surveys to plan and design roads, bridges, pipelines, power lines for all types of infrastructure projects. Surveyors provide data on land features, elevations, and property boundaries. With on and off talks about floods in the valley, floodplain management is a hot topic. Land surveys are essential for determining flood risk, assessing floodplain boundaries, and issuing floodplain development permits. Local governments and insurance companies rely on different types of surveys for flood management and insurance purposes.
Architects often require land surveys as a foundation for designing structures that fit within property boundaries and meet regulatory requirements. We're happy to communicate with your architect and understand their requirements so we can help to produce the right survey details fulfilling their architectural design needs. Another possible request could come in the form of needing help with historical preservation. Land surveyors can help document historical sites and structures, ensuring their preservation and compliance with heritage conservation regulations.
Most Important Value of a Land Survey
If you're still on the fence, we'll summarize with this: the most crucial reason to obtain a land survey is to secure and protect property rights. A land survey serves as an authoritative, legally recognized document that precisely defines property boundaries and characteristics. This protection is paramount for property owners and prospective buyers alike.
Without a land survey, uncertainty or assumptions can loom over property lines, potentially leading to unpleasant boundary disputes with neighbors or encroachments by nearby structures or developments. Such disputes can escalate into costly legal battles, causing financial and emotional distress. A much quicker, easier and cheaper way to avoid this potential headache is to have licensed surveyor check the facts.
Furthermore, land surveys provide essential information for responsible land use, adherence to zoning regulations, and accurate property assessments. This information empowers property owners to make informed decisions regarding construction, development, and property transactions, safeguarding their investments and minimizing potential risks.
A land survey is not merely a technicality but a fundamental tool for ensuring property rights, preventing disputes, and making sound real estate decisions. It offers peace of mind, legal protection, and a solid foundation for responsible property management and development, making it a wise and indispensable investment for anyone who values their property interests...and that should really be all of us.