Topographic Surveys

Topographic surveys reflect the physical characteristics of the property.  Contours and spot elevations, building locations, trees and tree driplines, utility structures, roadways, streams and swales and features of adjoining properties are all among the things we can locate in the field and present on a map for the use of property owners, architects and various designers, contractors and realtors.  Usually the precision and detail of the topographic survey are negotiated with the client, such as whether individual trees will be shown in forested areas and what contour interval is most useful for future design.  Because we are also a civil design firm we are particularly detailed regarding information that will allow a final design to be efficiently prepared.

The information shown on the topographic survey is used in a typical project by the architect for site and building design, the landscape architect for grading and layout design and by the civil engineer, often our Civil Department, for grading and drainage and utility design.  We will furnish the finished map in paper and electronic form.

In order to tie the topographic information to the boundary and "lock" the two types of information together, we have to perform a boundary survey involving research and field determination of boundary evidence.  The client determines whether they wish the additional step and expense of actually setting boundary corners.