Delaware Association of Surveyors

A person generally has the occasion to employ a Professional Land Surveyor once in a lifetime. Since each employment is so infrequent, the average person is not aware of logical steps to be followed in selecting a Professional Land Surveyor. Here are the answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions.

A survey should be made before purchasing real estate, subdividing any parcel of land or erecting any structure on property in which you have an interest. Remember, the services of a Professional Land Surveyor NOW will cost you less in time, worry and money than the cost of moving a building or defending a lawsuit later.

The registration process for Professional Land Surveyors has been designed to assure registrants have the knowledge, understanding, and experience to conduct a land survey properly. The State of Delaware recognizes this fact and requires, by law, that all land surveys be conducted by a registered Professional Land Surveyor.

Final cost is dependent upon the type of survey required and the difficulties encountered, which cannot always be anticipated in advance. The cost is based on the time required to obtain the necessary information of record, make the field survey of facts as they exist on the ground, perform the required office computations leading to a plan report of the findings, and set the corners on your property. In many cases the surveyor can provide an accurate estimate of the final cost, but the cost may vary if property evidence found in the field does not agree with deed records.

He will determine the boundaries of your property from evidence found on the ground and information of record. In case of a boundary dispute, only a court of law can render a final decision, based, in many cases, on the expert opinion of a Professional Land Surveyor. The corners of your property will be marked with iron pipes or concrete monuments. Concrete monuments are the most permanent, but also the most costly. In the event that a property corner falls on existing concrete or macadam pavement, a point will be set, ie, a drill hole, a chiseled X-mark, a large nail or spike. A Plan of Survey showing the marked property corners can be provided at additional cost.

Q. Should I explain the reason for the survey?
A. Yes, with the proper information he can recommend the type of survey you need and how much detail should be shown on the plan. Q. Must I visit the Land Surveyor’s office?
A. No, this is not necessary. You may transmit your instructions by telephone or letter. However, many surveyors require written authorization to proceed. You should furnish him with all information and documents pertaining to ownership of the property. Q. What are the types of land surveys?
A. There are many different types of surveys. Three common survey types are described below: Boundary Survey: a boundary survey of a lot or parcel of land is made for the purpose of locating property lines and determining the area within those lines. This type of survey is generally requested in connection with the conveyance of land and transfer of ownership. If location of improvements is requested, the location will be included in the survey. Topographic Survey: a topographic survey is performed to secure data from which a topographic plan is compiled. Such a plan will show the relief, elevations, natural and manmade features, which prevail on the land surface. Site Planning Survey: this type of survey is performed to compile a plan showing boundaries and topographical features, including existing utilities, setback and zoning lines. This plan will be utilized by designers and planners for proposed improvements. Q. What is a Mortgagee’s Inspection Plan?
A. Mortgagee’s Inspection Plan: this is an inspection whereby substantial proof is submitted to the lender or mortgagee that all permanent buildings and certain improvements are actually located on the land covered by the legal description. Any encroachments affecting the property will also be shown on the mortgage plan. This type of inspection does not include marking property corners. It should be noted that this is not a boundary survey. Q. How would you describe the relationship I should have with my surveyor?
A. The Professional Land Surveyor renders a highly technical and complex service. He is a member of a professional team composed of Land Surveyor, Title Attorney, Engineer and Architect. He prepares the foundation upon which your project is built. The Professional Land Surveyor is uniquely qualified to appear in court as your expert witness in case of litigation. His testimony is accepted by the court as evidence to which the greatest weight is attached. If your surveyor is a member of the Delaware Association of Surveyors, Inc., he has subscribed to a Code of Ethics which ensures a complete and high standard of work. The professional training of every member of the Delaware Association of Surveyors, Inc. ensures that he is competent to evaluate your needs, advise you honestly and serve you with ability and integrity. Q. What is the Delaware Association of Surveyors (DAS)?
A. The Delaware Association of Surveyors (DAS) was initiated by a group of professionals recognizing the need for greater cooperation between Professional Land Surveyors, higher educational standards, and better relations with the public. After many meetings the Association was formed, and became incorporated in early 1972. By-Laws were discussed and work was started to achieve its goals.

Maintain the dignity of the profession;
Uphold and elevate its standards;
Establish a medium for the exchange of surveying knowledge and practices;
Stimulate a greater interest among surveyors in public problems affecting the profession and enhance the value of the surveying profession to the community.

The Delaware Association of Surveyors has worked and will continue to work very closely with the State Board of Registration in matters of illegal practices, non-ethics and updating legislation which may be required to achieve and maintain the highest standards in surveying.