Benefits of Topographic Surveys in Building Projects

Topographic surveys are performed in order to identify both natural and manmade features of a particular piece or area of land. Unlike other types of surveys that result in maps, created with the use of landmarks and stakes, topographic surveys are performed using EDM and GPS technology. The resulting topographic map will include a series of contour lines, which can be used to identify the changes in land conditions that have taken place over time.

A topographic survey is performed for many reasons. These types of surveys are useful for homeowners, business owners, and builders who are interested in renovating or expanding their property. As a matter of fact, a topographic survey is one of the first steps when embarking in any type of construction job as it provides a clear picture of the surrounding land. It is important to understand the topography of the land beneath and around any type of a structure whether you are changing or modifying an existing property or building an entirely new construction.

In addition to identifying the contours of the ground beneath and around a property, topographic surveys also maps existing features on the earth's surface as well as features that are slightly above or below it. These include trees, streets, buildings, manholes, walkways, utility poles, retaining walls, and other such land features. The resulting topographic map serves as the base map for the design of the building, road, driveway, or any other type of construction to be done in the area. Topographic surveys may also be necessary to show the lines of easements on or across the property being surveyed, as well as its perimeter boundary lines. This way, the designer can accurately show zoning on top of other agency-required setbacks.

Advanced surveying technologies now provide more accurate insight into these kinds of measurements. Topographic surveys are critical when it comes to record retention (historical data, maps, and documents) for the property, as well as for better management and use of the land, regardless of the project at hand. It allows for better decision making as data collected can be weighed and analyzed as they are set against other factors that need to be considered during the design and planning process. Topographic surveys also add to historical data that can be used as base maps to help understand, conceptualize, and prescribe actions to be taken in the management and the use of the existing land.

About the Author:

Armando Dupont, a professional land surveyor started his career in surveying in 1977 and has extensive experience in managing personnel and projects. His experience includes: topographic mapping, boundary surveys and analysis, construction and control surveying, preparation of tract and parcel maps, earth work calculation and quantities, targeting and control for photogrammetric, and land title surveys in accordance with the American Land Title Association and the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping. Mr. DuPont founded Calvada Surveying, Inc. in 1989 and is a licensed Professional Land Surveyor in the State of California.