It's difficult to depict real-world elevations and land features accurately on a flat sheet of paper. Topographic survey teams, however, are experts in generating detailed drawings that serve as inputs for construction projects and real estate developments. Here’s more information about the purpose of topographic surveys and why your construction project may need one.

Understanding Topographic Surveys

A topographic survey, also known as a land survey, identifies and measures the exact location and details of human-made and natural features of an area. Qualified surveyors use specialized equipment to plot angles, curves, and distances. The resulting measurements are then integrated into a CAD (computer-aided design) software program to produce a map or 3D drawing of an area's topography—a graphic representation of land surfaces.

Topographic maps include elements like vegetation and contour lines, which display the gradient or steepness of slopes as well as peaks and valleys. Depending on the survey's purpose, it may delineate bodies of water, roads, and surrounding forests. The map may also mark the location of street lights, utility lines, pipelines, and electric boxes.

Why Are They Needed?

Design and construction decisions rely heavily on topographic surveys. Topographic maps provide information that can affect plans and designs and the integrity of structures to be built. For instance, builders and architects refer to the topographic survey of a future housing site to determine if grading is required to reduce the terrain’s slope. If a piece of property needs to be molded or shaped to make it suitable for construction, a topographic survey should be commissioned.

Other projects that benefit from topographic surveys include drainage system installations, land registry submissions, remodels, utility designs, and road improvements or construction.

Berling Engineering in Covington, KY, is a trusted partner of municipalities, developers, and construction companies when it comes to site development projects in Northern Kentucky. You can count on them to provide timely services and reliable customer support when you request a topographic survey, boundary surveying, land use planning, and other related civil engineering solutions. For inquiries about their services, call them today at (859) 331-9191, or visit their website to view a gallery of representative projects.