Ludlow Engineering and Land Survey

Surveys are conducted every single day for a variety of purposes and are an important part of society. Commercial surveys are a major area of work for land surveyors and are conducted for a range of commercial buildings and land.

What is a Commercial Survey?

A land survey is a map that outlines the exact boundaries, topography, divisions and features of a parcel of land. Commercial surveys are specifically created to suit the needs of commercial land owners. Most commercial buildings are very valuable and it is important that detailed surveys are done to protect the owners against any potential legal disputes in the future.

Different Types

Basically any type of land survey that exists can be used in the context of commercial land purposes. The type that is done depends on the specific needs of the land owner or seller. Some are much more detailed than others.

Some of the different types of surveys include: deformation, measured, boundary, topographic, ALTA and engineering surveys – to name just a few.

ALTA surveys are the most detailed commercial surveys available – and are very common for commercial land purposes. They combine a range of elements, including boundary surveys, mortgage surveys and topographic surveys to create a very detailed commercial survey. All ALTA surveys must adhere to minimum standards as set by the American Land Title Association (ALTA) and American Congress on Surveying and Mapping.

A structural survey is another popular type. They involve a detailed inspection of the physical condition and structural stability of the building itself. They highlight any repairs that need to be done. This is an essential survey for anyone considering buying a commercial property to avoid facing heavy repair costs after purchase. It is also important that large commercial buildings upkeep their physical condition for the safety of those who work inside.

Why are they needed?

There are many reasons why they are very important. We touched on one of those just before – safety. Many commercial surveys outline any potential hazards and damages that need to be looked at both on the land and the building itself.

Surveys are also important for anyone who is about to purchase a commercial property as it outlines exactly what you will be paying for – including the property boundaries and features such as driveways and car parks.

Commercial surveys also help protect owners against legal disputes about property boundaries. A detailed ALTA commercial survey has high regard in the courts and is very useful against if any court cases come against the owner.

How much do they cost?

Getting a survey can be very expensive. The most detailed ones can cost thousands of dollars. However, the cost depends on a variety of factors including size, shape, and vegetation on the land.

Anything that increases the difficulty and length of time it will take the land surveyor to do the survey will put up the price. Even the time of year and weather conditions can affect the price of a commercial survey.

How to get them

There are tens of thousands of licensed land surveyors across the USA who can create commercial surveys. Many specialize in specific types of surveys – so it is good to check what experience the land surveyor has before settling on a deal. The internet is a great place to find commercial surveyors, as well as your local directory.

To learn more about commercial surveying and to find a licensed land surveyor in your area, be sure to visit the Land Surveyor website for all your land survey needs.