When we think about land surveying, we mostly think of theodolites, robotic total stations, and land measurements. While land surveyors are trained to conduct technical processes, you can’t completely rule out blunders. No matter how experienced a surveyor is, there will always be human and instrument errors once in a while. In this blog, we will discuss the common land surveying mistake, and what you should do if your surveyor has made a mistake
Miscalculations
Errors in calculating property borders are very common in land surveying. Even a simple miscalculation can lead to the inaccuracy of the mapping. Miscalculations can occur due to equipment malfunction, wrong calibration of tools, and human error. Fixing a miscalculation of property boundaries can cost thousands of dollars. When this mistake is not fixed immediately, it can cause boundary disputes, devaluation of the property, and lawsuits.
Such errors and blunders can be avoided by:
- Double-checking all calculations
- Conducting thorough research by reviewing maps and other relevant documents
- Maintaining the surveying equipment and tools
- Always staying up to date with the latest practices and technology in land surveying
Use of Outdated Maps
One of the crucial tasks of a surveyor is to review historical data, maps, and property deeds. They use these documents as reference points when determining boundary lines. However, using an old, outdated map is usually discouraged. Property boundary lines change over time, which is why it’s not a good idea to rely on outdated survey maps. If a surveyor uses an outdated map, it can lead to incorrect boundary lines, disputes between neighbors, and violations of zoning regulations.
Miscommunication
Throughout the surveying process, professional land surveyors are required to communicate with their clients. They typically work with clients across all different industries like homeowners, real estate experts, architects and engineers, and contractors.
As a surveyor, it’s their responsibility to communicate with their clients in layman’s terms. All the data and survey reports should make sense to their clientele. A homeowner may struggle to understand what such technical data means. This is where miscommunication between the land surveyor and the client may arise. Failing to establish clear communication may lead to misunderstandings about the scope of work, deadlines, and survey results.
To avoid this mistake, your land surveyor should:
- Use maps and 3D models to help clients visualize the boundaries
- Explain the scope of the project, timeline, costs, and deliverables
- Avoid using technical jargon and relay information in layman’s terms
- Follow up if everything is communicated clearly
- Provide regular updates regarding the progress of the project
Too Many Delays
Miscommunication can lead to another problem, which is the delay of the project. Like in any other profession, land surveyors need to meet deadlines. But sometimes, surveyors make mistakes in managing their time effectively. Project delays can arise due to unexpected challenges during the surveying process,
In case of delays, the land surveyor should inform the client promptly and provide an updated timeline. Maintaining clear lines of communication will not only ensure transparency but also avoid misunderstandings.
Hurrying the Land Survey Process
Conducting an in-depth land survey requires utmost diligence and careful attention to detail. Survey professionals need to ensure that all measurements and data are reliable.
While it’s true that they need to meet deadlines, rushing the process will only lead to more errors. Speed matters, but there is nothing more important than accuracy. Cutting corners is something that a surveyor shouldn’t do. This will only result in inaccurate measurements, legal disputes, and omissions in the survey data.
What to Do if Your Surveyor Made Mistakes
If the land surveyor was negligent or failed to perform to the required standard, you may consider the following:
- Ask them to discuss the error and how they can correct the issue
- Request a correction that involves additional fieldwork or research
- Hire a land surveyor who can perform a separate boundary survey
- Claim compensation for the damages and inconvenience
Need a Land Surveyor in Pittsburgh?
At Pittsburgh Land Surveyors, we always strive to give you the most accurate surveys. Our team provides a wide range of services like mortgage surveys, flood elevation certification surveys, ALTA surveys, and more. By staying up to date with the latest technology and industry standards, we minimize the possibility of errors and mistakes in our work. Contact us for a free quote!
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