FAQ's
What do I get when I order a boundary survey?
A boundary survey includes locating all improvements and flagging your property corners. We provide a PDF version of the survey and three hard copies with a raised seal.
How Long is a survey valid?
Survey acceptance requirements vary by municipality. Please contact your city or county to confirm whether your existing survey is acceptable and whether an updated survey is required.
Why is my survey printed on smaller paper?
Because of the cost of paper, ink, and postage, standard surveys are no longer required to be printed on such large sheets. You will typically see standard properties on legal-sized paper or 11”x17” paper. Larger parcels will be placed on engineer prints if we cannot fit it on 11”x17”.
I just need to get one corner/ one property line surveyed.
Can you do that?
Currently, we do not locate just one property corner or line. It is always in your best interest to get a full boundary survey as it is a document that can show you exactly how your property is laid out, including any encroachments.
Can the field crew explain where my property corners and fences are?
Please direct questions about your property corners and fences to our office after you receive the PDF of your completed survey. During fieldwork, our crews locate corners and improvements, including features that may be outside your property. Our office can review the completed survey with you and answer your questions.
Why weren't some or all of my property corners flagged?
A property corner may not have an existing rod or monument in the ground, or the existing marker may not accurately represent the corner. In these cases, we must calculate the corner's location in the office so it is shown correctly on your survey.
Do I need a survey when buying or selling a house?
If an acceptable, updated survey already exists for the property, a new survey may not be necessary. Check with your lender or real estate agent to confirm whether the existing survey meets the requirements for your transaction.
Why do I need a surveyor to stake out my house before construction?
A stakeout marks the proposed location of your house before construction begins, helping you check its placement against applicable setback requirements. DLS offers rough and final stakeouts. This service requires a client-approved plot plan, a boundary survey performed by DLS, and a plot or site plan prepared by DLS.
Can I cut branches from my neighbor's tree that extend over my property line?
DLS can identify your property lines, but we cannot provide legal advice about trimming a neighbor's tree. We encourage you to discuss the situation with your neighbor and seek legal advice about your rights before taking action.
What does a survey stake in my yard mean?
A survey stake may mark a property line, easement, right-of-way, or a reference point used by the survey crew. A stake does not necessarily mark your property boundary. Please leave stakes in place and contact our office if you have questions about a stake placed by DLS.
How close to a property line can I put a fence?
Fence placement requirements vary by city or county. Contact your local municipality to confirm the requirements for your property. DLS recommends placing the fence six inches inside your property line; this is a recommendation, not a requirement, and does not replace applicable local rules.
What should I do before splitting my property into smaller lots?
Contact your city or county to confirm the requirements for dividing your property, including applicable zoning requirements. Once your property is approved for a lot split, DLS can provide a quote for the surveying work.
Can DLS tell me what I need for a builder's package or permit?
DLS can provide general guidance about the surveying services you may need for construction or a permit application. Requirements vary by city, county, and zoning district and may change. You are responsible for contacting your city or county directly to confirm the specific requirements for your project.