You've seen the surveyors who work on the edges of properties with their tripods, wearing safety vests. Have you wondered why they're there? Topographic surveys are conducted by people who locate every surface feature of properties, including elevations. They produce 3D maps of properties. Size, location, height, and elevation changes are all part of a topographic survey. Sometimes, topographic surveys are called contour surveys. Read on for several circumstances that call on the services of a surveyor.
Situations That Require a Land Surveyor
Topographic surveys are usually required as part of construction projects, real estate transactions, and civil engineering design. Specific types of projects include:
- Utility design
- Drainage or grading projects
- Remodeling projects that affect existing structures
- Bridge or road design or improvements
- New construction
Most local governments require topographic surveys to determine existing elevations and conditions of a given site. They are used by engineers and architects to develop suitable and accurate designs based on the reality of existing conditions.
Measuring and Using Data
The surveyor uses either an EDM (electronic distance measurement) unit or a GPS unit that is of sufficient quality to do surveys. Once the survey is completed on-site, the results are presented as a site map with contour lines. Specialized computer software provides interactive views. CAD (computer-aided design) software professionals then use the data to provide models of how the projected improvements will change the topography.
The completed survey is delivered to the client. Then, a planning process takes place. Features such as grading, drainage, and other issues can be taken into account, using information about the natural landscape to inform the improvements. Hiring a professional topographic surveyor before real estate transactions or construction projects begin is crucial to ensure that features of the land will support the plan.
Employing a topographic surveyor is an integral part of initiating appropriate, sustainable projects. Keep these facts in mind as you prepare, and visit https://www.chrisnelsonassociates.com/land-surveying-services/topographic-surveys/ for even more detailed information.