When you're looking at a survey map for the first time, it can feel overwhelming. But with a little guidance, you can understand its key components and how they impact your land or property. Whether you're buying, selling, or making improvements, learning how to read a survey map is essential.
Identify the Survey Parts
A survey map consists of two main components: the illustration and the written report. The illustration provides a visual layout of the property, showing boundaries, structures, and sometimes utilities. The written report gives additional context, such as legal descriptions and property history.
Familiarize Yourself With Legend
Most survey maps include a legend, usually located in a corner. This legend is like the key to unlocking the map’s meaning. It uses symbols to represent various property features—such as property lines, structures, or utility lines. Here are some common abbreviations you will want to familiarize yourself with:
- R/W or ROW: Right of Way
- PL or P/L: Property Line
- ESMT.: Easement
- B.L.: Building Line
- PROP. COR.: Property Corner
Locate the Surveyor's Certificate
A valid survey includes a surveyor’s certificate. Look for this section, often signed and stamped with an embossed seal. This certificate provides legal backing to the survey, ensuring it's recognized in legal disputes or when working with local authorities.
Understand Property Boundaries
On the map, your property boundaries are marked with lines that indicate both the bearing and distance. The bearing tells you the direction the boundary line runs (e.g., North, East), while the distance tells you how far the boundary extends. These measurements help define exactly where your property begins and ends.
Find Important Features
The illustration on your survey map also shows key features like:
Each of these can impact how you use or develop your property.
Understand the Scale
Maps typically include a scale that helps you understand the actual distances represented. For example, one inch on the map might equal 50 feet on the ground. Knowing this allows you to measure distances between property lines, structures, and other features accurately.
Review the Written Report
The written report that accompanies the illustration often contains vital information, including:
- Official property measurements
- Easements (legal rights others may have to use part of your property)
- Zoning information (whether your property is residential, commercial, or mixed-use)
This report can also note if there have been recent changes or improvements to the property, and whether these meet local code standards.
Put Your Survey to Use
Once you’re comfortable with the survey, it becomes a powerful tool. Whether you're building a new structure, fencing in your yard, or selling your land, the survey ensures you're operating within legal boundaries. If any disputes over property lines arise, your survey will be key to resolving them.