10 Things To Consider When Hiring A Land Surveyor

Several years ago there was an article posted listing 10 tips when

hiring a land surveyor. I would like to review this article and give more explanation on the 10 items the author shared. The original article is located by clicking here. Here at Ludlow Engineering and Land Surveying we share with the author many similar points. Here is what we look for and would recommend as well. By the way, this article was written in 2008 and is very applicable to land surveyors throughout the country. Great job should be given to the original author.

Is the person you’re hiring licensed to perform professional land surveying services? All states require a land surveying license. All land surveying firms know this and is not really an issue. The client should verify that the stamp is signified by the correct state in which they live.

Does this person have Professional Liability Insurance? For large projects, yes this is something that is important to require before hiring. For a small residential land survey, not as critical. However there may be times that this could be huge, better to ask than to be sorry.

Does this person or firm have Workers Compensation Insurance? This is state law. It can be assumed if they are in business than they carry the correct insurance requirements. If you are hiring a company to be a sub-contractor for you, then yes you will want verification.

Does this person have experience in performing the services you require? This can be researched either on their website or Google local or by past clients. Know who you are hiring before you hire.

Does this person pursue continuing education? Again required by most states, that the land surveyors take and keep themselves current in their industry.

Does this person have a professional demeanor? This can be easily judged by your first meeting or even by the telephone as you make that first contact. Please remember surveyors, you only get one change for a first impression.

Do they use modern equipment? This information can be gathered on their website. If land surveyors are still using a slide rule and an old transit… that may be ok, but it certainly may take you a lot longer to receive the product. I would worry, however if they pulled a 66 foot chain.

Ask for a written contract and when you need to pay? Contracts are safe and should be required by both parties.

What’s being set at your property corners? Unless determined otherwise by the client, a land surveyor must set the correct monumentation when performing a survey. In most states a 5/8″ rebar with the proper cap on it should be set on each corner.

Will they walk the property with you? This is important if the property that was surveyed is large and you feel that locating the corners would be difficult to find on your own. Otherwise, a survey marker is easily visible to see from most areas of the property.

As you can see by comparing our article with the original article there are many similarities. The basic rule of thumb should be applied when hiring any type of professional and that is " Use Wisdom." Hiring a land surveyor the same can be true. We hope you have enjoyed this article.. If you have please feel free to share or like our site.