When planning a new construction project, purchasing property, or working on other significant projects involving land, partnering with a land surveyor may be recommended – or even required. However, you may be unsure about what exactly this profession involves. Learning more about what Oklahoma surveyors do can help you understand why you may need their services.
The Job of Oklahoma Surveyors
While the specific surveying process and planning details may differ depending on each specific project, in general, a land surveyor’s job is to measure, map out, and document the features of a property. These features include its boundaries, physical characteristics, and more. Their work happens both in the field and in an office setting.
In the Field:
The survey itself is conducted in the field. Here, a land surveyor OKC will:
- Set Up Equipment. Once on-site, the surveyor will set up specialized surveying equipment, which can range from total stations to unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). These tools help the surveyor measure distances, elevations, angles, and more with a high degree of accuracy.
- Collect the Data. The Oklahoma land surveying technician then collects the data by carefully measuring the property’s features, including its boundary lines, topography, existing structures, and any other information needed for the project.
In the Office:
Fieldwork is sandwiched between work that often occurs in an office setting. Before Oklahoma surveyors conduct the survey, they will complete thorough research on the property. They will review any existing property records, previous surveys, land deeds, and more to understand the land’s background.
After completing the fieldwork, the surveyor will return to the office to process the data. This stage is just as critical as the fieldwork, as it involves turning raw data into detailed reports, maps, and legal documents. During this stage, a surveyor will:
- Analyze the Data. Using specialized software, surveyors will analyze and process the data collected during the survey.
- Create the Map. The surveyor will then create a land map. This map is a detailed representation of the property on a horizontal plane that details its boundaries, topographical features, and more.
- Finalize the Documents. Once the map has been created, the surveyor will finalize and present the documents to the client. They may also submit their findings to the appropriate authorities if required by law or by client request.
What Projects Will a Land Surveyor OKC Work On?
The expertise and knowledge of a land surveyor are useful for a variety of projects, both commercial and residential. This includes:
Property Transactions
When two or more parties are embarking on a property transaction, a land survey can be beneficial. The surveyor can clarify the boundaries of the property, along with other characteristics, so buyers know exactly what they are purchasing.
Residential Projects
Whether you are adding an extension to your home or installing a fence, a land surveyor OKC can help you ensure that everything is within your property lines. A survey can identify precise boundaries and determine if any encroachments are present to ensure your improvements stay on your property.
Commercial Construction
A land survey is incredibly helpful in determining the safety and functionality of commercial construction projects. The survey data ensures that the planned structures are suitable for the property and comply with local zoning laws. Additionally, surveys provide land data that is useful in determining the best locations for utilities and other critical infrastructure.
Boundary Disputes
If there is a disagreement between neighbors about the location of property lines, a land surveyor can provide the data needed to resolve the dispute. By conducting a survey, they can clearly define the boundaries before it becomes a costly legal issue.
Additional Projects
Outside of conducting surveys, a land surveyor can also offer their expertise in other ways. Many surveyors are trained and experienced in other areas like land planning and civil engineering. Likewise, they may partner with other professionals, including engineers, architects, and construction professionals, to advise on projects.
Why Partner With Sisemore & Associates for Oklahoma Land Surveying?
Land surveyors are a valuable asset to many projects, so who you hire matters. When you partner with Sisemore & Associates, you reap the benefits that come from our decades of experience. Contact us for more information about our surveying, civil engineering, and land planning services.