Land surveying is one of the world’s oldest fields of study, used as early as the Pyramids as Egyptians subdivided fertile farmland around the Nile. It defined properties in the days of exploration, from the settlement of Australia to American western expansion. As it was a vital tool in the days of Cleopatra, today it is essential to modern construction.

The Basics of Land Surveying

How It Works

Land surveying is a scientific technique that measures and maps a specified area using mathematics, physics, engineering, and law. It determines a property’s points and distances between them using specialized technology. In the field, they use GPS receivers, robotic total stations, and 3D scanners to map the area; back in the office, they research county and city records, complete mathematical calculations, and use surveying software to process the information gathered in the field into a detailed map and plans for the property.

The Uses of Land Surveying

A land surveyor’s job is an essential first step in land development projects because their findings establish the course of construction. Their measurements are used by architects to make the most of the land they have, while engineers need them to make the buildings structurally sound.

Beyond making sure that a development can both last and fit within a property, the root of land surveying is to establish the boundaries of a piece of land and express them through detailed land descriptions. This fundamental purpose can cover a variety of situations—from understanding a property you’re interested in buying to dividing up a piece of land to sell. It can even settle land disputes when there is a conflict of use with neighbors. Mortgage lenders might also ask you to survey the property you want to purchase before they give you a loan. 

A qualified land surveying team understands how the quality of their job plays into the success of an entire project. Hart-Frederick Consultants PC aims to provide excellence in their field by dividing and conquering with two specialized teams: one focused on civil and municipal engineering and the other with an emphasis in surveying and land development. With Tony Frederick, a licensed professional land surveyor, at the helm of this Tiffin, IA, based company as president, any project manager will rest assured they’re working with an elite, experienced team that will keep their projects on time and on budget. To learn more about how Hart-Frederick Consultants can help your next project, call (319) 545-7215 or visit them online for more information.