High Definition Surveying and Its Utilities

High definition surveying can be a practical way to collect as-built data accurately and rapidly. It is a non-invasive method that utilizes a 3D laser scanner, which emits an eye-safe and narrow laser beam that can cover any size or type of object—from buildings to bridges and vacant lots. Through HD surveying, land surveyors are able to gather data more conveniently in a matter of minutes. The measurements are gathered and grouped into a complete point cloud database, which can be viewed, altered, or manipulated on a computer. The data is viewable, analyzed, and viewed like a 3D model made in a conventional CAD program.

The technology behind high definition surveying is considered the most advanced and highly updated among typically used land surveying techniques. High definition surveying offers a swifter and more accurate way to collect data and measurements, making it useful for builders, constructors, architects, engineers, and project developers. With HD surveying, those professionals can accurately survey land, even if it has already been constructed. The survey can be useful when a structure or land must be examined for remodeling, renovation, destruction, or for other purposes.

The methodology for HD 3D laser surveying involves a high-end and versatile scanning system and user-friendly software. This method of surveying can take 360 by 320 degree photo-realistic panoramic scans, too, so surveyors can have precise and exclusive 3D images for reference. High definition surveying is offered by experienced and reputable land surveying companies.

High definition surveying is practical for a number of applications. It can be used for creating and updating as-built documentation, data exchange with various CAD platforms, condition and damage assessment, deformation analysis, and clash/interference checking. It can be used for generating 2D plans, too. 3D survey results may help land inspections become more productive and reap better results.

ALTA/ACSM Land Title Survey - Various Applications and Advantages

The ALTA survey is typically required to be submitted with other documents during commercial real estate transactions. It is the land title survey that is usually referred to as a section of a title certificate application or insurance. The survey must be performed according to the standards and specifications of the ALTA/ACSM. ALTA stands for 'The American Land Title Association', and ACSM stands for 'The American Congress on Surveying and Mapping'. ALTA surveys aim to promote nationwide uniformity and standards in land survey data.

ALTA/ACSM land title surveys are beneficial to title companies, corporations and lenders, contractors, engineers, architects, and the general public. The ACSM and the National Society of Professional Surveyors created accuracy standards for dealing with issues like closure and distance requirements and minimum angle and positional uncertainty for ALTA/ACSM land title surveys. The survey can provide the most comprehensive and accurate information to the title company before the title is insured to the property.

An ALTA/ACSM land title survey typically bears the full names of concerned parties, such as the buyer, seller, lender, insurance company, and Title Company. This survey may be practical for homeowners, too. Hence, it is important that both title insurance and land surveying companies work closely together to make sure that the ALTA/ACSM survey can be useful when resolving matters that may affect land ownership.

Also known as 'due diligence surveys', ALTA land title surveys clearly depict improvements and easements, ownership areas, rights-of-way, encroachments (if any), encumbrances, the boundaries of the property, and other important aspects pertaining to ownership of land. ALTA/ACSM surveys may be used as a basis for ideas when there is a need to improve the land with trails, fences, rights of ways, and roads. They may provide information that may require more investigation especially when there is a possibility of adverse rights on the property.

Difference Between Land Surveying and Mapping

Before GPS technology was invented, land mapping was manually done by collecting data from a specific land area. Cartographers had to spend hours to complete maps back in the day but today, advancement in technology has made a great impact in making land mapping more time-effective and easier.

Land surveying involves all activities that record and measure all information in our physical world as well as the environment. The term is used interchangeably with Geomatics—a body of science that involves pinpointing the position of things above and below the surface of the earth. Mapping is a part of the land surveying process. It uses specialized technology, mathematics and mapping equipment.

The role of a land surveyor is to determine and mark different locations on a certain land. This is used in surveying boundaries of certain real estate properties in order to find out their specific coordinates. Land surveyors come up with three-dimensional or 3D positions and distances of angles between them.

Out in the field, the land surveyor use GPS, aerial/terrestrial scanners or Robotic Total Solutions to map a certain area of land. They take photos and make computations. In the office, they use sophisticated software such as Auto CAD to plan and draft their measurements. They work on a variety of projects that involve mining exploration, land division, tunnel building, land size determination and measurement. They are also responsible for providing specific information about a land to guide the work of architects, land developers and engineers.

Follow the link to learn more about land survey services!

Significance of ALTA/ACSM Land Title Surveys

An ALTA survey is a type of land title survey product that meets the needs of title insurers in order to remove standard survey exceptions from the current/existing title policy. The American Land Title Association is the main proponent of this particular land survey product, and it aims to provide both buyer and lender with relevant information concerning the present and future use of the land in question as well as the different restrictions and encumbrances, which can –potentially affect the property. The information contained in an ALTA land survey allows lenders and buyers to evaluate the property and at the same time analyze all the potential benefits and risks of owning it.

Officially, the stated purpose of this particular survey is to remove from the property’s title insurance policy, the “survey exception language,” which is supposed to benefit both the owner and the lender’s title insurance coverage. In simpler terms, this is referred to as providing an extended coverage.

The extent that one can deviate from these standards depends on the title insurer’s willingness to provide the coverage required by the lender or the buyer for the property transaction. ALTA surveys are commonly used as underwriting tools on succeeding property transactions. An ALTA survey also provides relevant information to interested parties, answering concerns and questions in an official and unbiased manner.

Generally, an ALTA survey provides information including:

• Surveyor findings about the proper and actual boundaries of the property.

• Observed easements and any easements and exceptions stated in the title commitment.

• Significant observations about the property, which may include utilities, improvements, and public access; and

• Specific information relating to zoning, topography, flood hazard concerns, and parking configurations.

People who plan on selling properties may also use ALTA surveys for protection against potential claims from buyers or lenders after the conveyance of the property title.

3D Laser Scanning Services More Realistic Approach to Surveying

3D laser scanning has without a doubt revolutionized land surveying, among many other fields and industries. The latest in laser scanning technologies, techniques, and methodologies enable survey professionals help clients plan and execute projects in the most efficient manner while enabling customers to analyze every component and feature of facilities and sites. The many advanced capabilities of 3D lasers and equipment help ensure the accuracy of data gathered and, in turn, allow surveyors make sound recommendations on which critical decisions about property development can be based upon. Sound data collection and survey accuracy are important keys to the success of projects during all stages of the process, from planning all the way through to completion.

There are many benefits to using 3D laser scanning technology for survey applications, among the most notable of which is the faster completion and shorter field time. In the past, field surveys would usually take several days to a few weeks to complete. Today’s 3D technology, however, speeds up the entire process, cutting down several days to a week’s worth of survey work to just one day of scanning. Additionally, 3D laser scanning allows for the creation of complete fly-throughs, detailed animations, and 3D models in no time.

Because field time is cut down significantly, laser scanning also allows for reduced project costs. This is also largely because of the increased efficiency and accuracy of surveys, which means less room for mistakes and errors that often require re-scanning of the space. Data accuracy also provides you with a solid knowledge base that enables better planning of projects. An extremely versatile tool, 3D laser scanner technologies also find great applications outside of land surveying and can be used for all kinds of survey tasks from budgetary and timeline preparation to historical preservation, change detection, accident reconstruction, hazard surveying, and a lot more.

Importance of a Topographical Survey

Topographic surveys are essential for determining a land's geographical condition. The data can be useful when identifying maps and determining the contours of a land. Topographic surveys are crucial during the planning stage of any construction or developmental project. The contours and maps created during the survey will serve as the basis for the project, whether it be a developmental structure, road, bridge, commercial, or residential structure.

Topographical surveys can be conducted below and above ground level. Walls, wells, manholes, utility poles, soil density, walkways, and trees are among the elements and areas that will be covered during the survey. Each aspect or material found on the land will contribute to a topographical survey's outcome. The following steps are usually involved in a topographic survey:

1. Establish vertical and horizontal control to serve as the survey's framework.
2. Determine ample horizontal elevation and location of ground points to provide enough data, which will be essential for plotting as soon as a map is prepared.
3. Locate man-made and natural features that may be covered based on the survey's purpose.
4. Compute angles, elevations, volumes, and distances, of the earthwork.
5. Draw the topographic map. 

The outcome of the topographical survey should reveal various details about your land. Likewise, the results are useful in determining the land's cultural and natural features. The data is essential for determining the value, life, and strength of the land. The breadth, length, height, curves, height, elevation, and other factors that need to be measured will be calculated, and each surveyed aspect should contribute to the land's map and contouring.

Topographical surveys can be applied to a variety of situations. The results are useful for engineers, geologists, foresters, land promoters, architects, and government institutions and agencies. Topographic maps are used as guides for creating the land's actual geographical map, too.

Guidelines to Be Followed For Residential Property Survey

Property surveys are essential for your residential property, as it will help guarantee the legalities of your land. It will determine the boundaries, rights of way, and possible easements, should you want to rebuild or renovate. Hiring the right residential property surveyor is crucial to the success and accuracy of a residential property survey. Here are some of the guidelines to follow:

• Hire a professional – Find a reputable and experienced land surveying company to conduct the residential property survey. Professional land surveyors use their knowledge and skills in physics, mathematics, engineering, and geometry to perform the most complex land surveys. Land surveying is the method of determining the three-dimensional and terrestrial positions and the angles and distances between them. The points are usually marked on the earth's surface, and these are used to establish boundaries and land maps. Special skills and equipment are required to complete a survey. 

• Make sure the land surveyor is licensed – Always be sure to hire a licensed residential property surveyor. Licensing enables surveyors to practice and legally offer their services in your state. A license also proves the capability and expertise of a particular land surveyor. Professional surveyors can identify and research, analyze, and evaluate the land in question before deliberately plotting the boundaries of the property. They are capable of researching previous records and past surveys on your property, in case these factors may influence the findings on your land. 

• Check what technologies and services offered – Skilled residential property surveyors are able to offer a wide range of services using the most advanced technologies. High-definition surveying is administered using state of the art 3D laser scanners, which are proven to provide swift and accurate results. Surveyors are able to conduct ALTA/ACSM land title surveys, too, in case you require assistance for a legal dispute regarding your land.