Q and A with Matt Graham

What does a survey cost?

This is the most asked question and the most difficult to answer. Many factors are involved in the determining a cost proposal for a survey. Unfortunately there is not a 'one size fits all' approach to surveying. Location, type of legal description, size of parcel, amount of research involved and the surveyor's knowledge of the area all have an impact on cost. Give us a call to determine what your survey needs are and we'll make sure you are getting only the survey you need at a competitive price.

Why do I need a Professional Surveyor?

While it is true that you may be able to find your property corners on your own with a metal detector and a shovel, a surveyor is able to analyze those corners, measure their location and determine whether they are in fact the true corners and if they are correctly placed. A Professional Surveyor also assumes responsibility for those corners set or verified. 

When do I need a Professional Surveyor?

Certainly if you are contemplating any type of construction whether it is a fence, addition or outbuilding you should strongly consider hiring a Professional Surveyor. The cost of a survey is much less than the costs involved if there is a mistake. Another instance would be in a boundary dispute with a neighbor. If you can't work it out yourselves, a surveyor can help. If you are able to agree on a boundary that may not be exactly per the original legal description, a surveyor can measure and document this new boundary so that it becomes a matter of record and does not create problems for either party in the future.

How long will a survey take?

Again, it depends on the type of survey being done and the schedule of the surveyor. Unlike a lot of surveyors, I keep a fairly fluid schedule so that I can easily adapt to changing work loads. Oftentimes I can start a job within 2 to 3 days. Most surveys should take less than a week to complete.

What is a Professional Surveyor?

Per the Arizona Revised Statutes : "Land surveyor means a person who by reason of knowledge of the mathematical and physical sciences, principles of land surveying and evidence gathering acquired by professional education or practical experience, or both, is qualified to practice land surveying as attested by registration as a land surveyor." Simply put, a surveyor measures the positions of points and the relationship between them. These points are used for identifying ownership.

Why do I need a survey? Can't you just mark my corners?

A survey is what allows me to determine where your corners are and if in fact they are the true corners. Without applying the fundamentals of Land Surveying to locating these corners, there is no way to tell if they are correct or just a random stake in the ground.