Property owner resources

Land Survey Guides

Everything you need to know about land surveys: costs, types, when you need one, and how to find the right surveyor.

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Survey Types

Types of Land Surveys: Which One Do You Actually Need?

Learn the 7 main types of land surveys, what each one costs, and which one fits your project in 2026.

9 min read
What Is a Boundary Survey? When You Need One and What It Shows

A boundary survey locates legal property lines and corners. Learn when you need one, what it shows, what it costs, and w...

5 min read
What Is a Topographic Survey? When You Need One and What It Costs

A topographic survey maps elevations, contours, drainage, utilities, trees, and site features for design, permits, gradi...

5 min read
Do You Need an ALTA/NSPS Survey? Before You Order One

Asked for an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey? Learn when you need one, what to gather first, how Table A changes scope, and ...

9 min read
What Is an Elevation Certificate? Before You Pay for One

An elevation certificate is a FEMA flood document used for insurance, lenders, permits, and map changes. Learn what it i...

6 min read

Property Owner Questions

Can I Survey My Own Property? What the Law Says

You can find approximate boundary markers yourself, but every state requires a licensed PLS to produce a legally valid s...

8 min read
Do I Need a Survey to Build a Fence? What Every Homeowner Should Know

Most states don't require a survey to build a fence, but skipping one risks costly neighbor disputes and forced removal.

8 min read
Do I Need a Survey to Sell My House?

When a seller should get a survey before listing, when the buyer or lender usually handles it, and how boundary, flood, ...

9 min read
How Long Does a Land Survey Take? Timeline by Survey Type

Land surveys take 3 days to 4 weeks depending on type and complexity. See timelines for boundary, ALTA, topographic, and...

8 min read
Who Pays for a Land Survey?

Who usually pays for a land survey in a home sale, refinance, fence project, boundary dispute, ALTA transaction, or floo...

9 min read

How-To Guides

Guides by State

State-specific costs, laws, and hiring guides.