A boundary survey involves research of recorded deeds, subdivision plans, and other public records, combined with field measurements and evaluation of physical evidence to determine the location of property boundary lines and monuments.

This work is typically a retracement survey, in which the surveyor follows in the footsteps of prior surveyors by analyzing record documents and physical evidence to locate previously established boundary lines.

The findings are depicted on a survey plan prepared in accordance with applicable Pennsylvania surveying laws, regulations, and professional standards of practice.

A boundary survey is performed to locate and identify the limits of property ownership as described in recorded deeds and other available evidence.

Boundary surveys are commonly needed when:

• Buying or selling property

• Installing fences or improvements near property lines

• Planning construction or site work

• Subdividing land

• Addressing questions regarding boundary line locations

Lenders, attorneys, or municipalities may also require a survey in certain situations.

1. Initial Contact
After you reach out, we will discuss the property location and the type of service requested. Basic information such as the address, parcel number, or deed reference helps define the scope of work.

2. Record Research
Before field work begins, recorded deeds, subdivision plans, and other available documents are reviewed. This research identifies boundary descriptions, prior survey information, and relevant record evidence.

3. Field Investigation
Field work includes locating existing monuments and gathering physical evidence related to the boundary. Site conditions such as vegetation, terrain, and monument availability may affect field time.

4. Analysis & Documentation
Field data and record information are evaluated and reconciled in accordance with applicable Pennsylvania laws and professional surveying standards. A survey plan is then prepared documenting relevant boundary evidence and measurements.

5. Deliverables
Depending on the service requested, deliverables may include:

• A signed and sealed survey plan
• Monument marking (where appropriate)
• FEMA elevation certificate documentation
• Subdivision or mapping plans suitable for submission or recording

A property boundary cannot be accurately evaluated by looking at only one line in isolation. Boundary surveying is a retracement process that involves analyzing the entire parcel, including recorded deeds, adjoining properties, subdivision plans, and physical monumentation.

Property lines are interconnected. In order to provide a reliable and properly documented survey, the entire boundary must be researched, measured, and evaluated as a whole.

Surveying only a single line without considering the full boundary could result in incomplete or misleading information. For that reason, boundary surveys are performed on the entire property.

Survey fees vary depending on several factors, including property size, terrain, availability of record information, monument evidence, and the scope of services requested.

Each project requires research of recorded documents, field investigation, and preparation of survey documentation in accordance with applicable Pennsylvania laws and professional standards. Because no two properties are identical, fees are determined on a project-specific basis.

For an accurate estimate, please contact us with the property address and a brief description of your needs. We will review available information and provide a detailed, written quote.

A flood elevation certificate is an official document that verifies the elevation of a building relative to FEMA flood zone data and the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). It is typically required for flood insurance rating, refinancing, new construction, or property transactions in designated flood hazard areas.

The certificate documents key elevations such as the lowest floor, building openings, and adjacent grade. Insurance providers use this information to determine flood insurance premiums.

If your property is located in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area, a current elevation certificate may be required by your lender or insurance company.

You can request a survey by submitting the contact form on our website, calling our office, or sending an email. To provide an accurate quote, please include the property address and any relevant information such as the parcel number, deed reference, or type of survey needed (boundary, subdivision, flood elevation certificate, etc.).

We review available record information and respond promptly—typically within one business day—with next steps and a project-specific estimate.