If you own a piece of land, you might already be familiar with land surveys and plot plans. These two terms are very similar, which is why most people use them interchangeably. Land surveys and plot plans help identify a property’s features and boundaries.
They are typically used when purchasing a home or any real estate property. Both documents might help you make a purchasing decision. In this blog, we’ll discuss the main differences between a land survey and a plot plan to determine which is right for you.
What Is a Plot Plan?
A plot plan is a type of architectural drawing that shows a piece of property and several improvements related to the boundary lines and roadways. Some of the essential structures and features included in a plot plan are buildings, decks, driveways, sheds, and fences.
While a surveyor must conduct an on-site survey to ensure accuracy, creating a plot plan typically requires little to no fieldwork. As long as the document is accurate and drawn to scale, plot plans may be prepared by anyone. However, plot plans are usually drawn by land surveyors, architects, and engineers. A drafter at a land survey company can use existing maps and documents of the property.
When To Choose a Plot Plan
Compared to land surveys, plot plans are less detailed. Its primary function is to show existing features and boundaries within a property. If you want to confirm whether the structures are inside a property’s boundaries, then a plot plan is a viable option. This ensures that the detailed site plan will meet the guidelines of the building and development codes.
If you have any proposed improvements to the land, a plot plan might be necessary. A plot plan is also included in zoning applications, which are submitted to the relevant permitting agencies. Most areas and communities require plot plans before adding a property fence or altering an existing structure.
How To Create a Plot Plan
- Try to locate an existing map or plot plan of your property.
- Obtain accurate measures of the structures on the property.
- Draw a rough sketch of the plot plan, then insert the measurements on the outline.
- Show existing buildings on the plot plan as well as the proposed improvements.
- Locate the property corners and boundary lines.
- Draw the major dimensions of the plan and finalize the document.
What Is a Land Survey?
A land survey is a graphic layout of a property that maps out the shape and boundary lines. It includes the dimensions of the land, physical features, fences, utility lines, and topographic contours. Aside from this, it will show the location of any manmade and natural features on a piece of land. Land surveys are used in measuring structures, resolving boundary disputes, and designing construction projects.
When To Choose a Land Survey
If you need accurate and precise information on your boundary lines, a land survey is the best choice. Other than identifying legal boundaries, there are other reasons why you should get a land survey. It is mainly used when you’re purchasing property or acquiring an easement to complete a construction project. Obtaining a land survey from a professional surveyor will give you valuable insight before closing your real estate deal. This will also avoid boundary disputes in the future.
How To Prepare for a Land Survey
- Request a free estimate from a professional land surveyor.
- Gather all the legal documents and deeds for preliminary research about your property.
- Provide a plot map of the land if you have any.
- Fill out the necessary forms and paperwork to make the process faster.
- Make sure there are no obstructions that could prolong the survey process.
- Remove all clutter in key areas like fences and boundary lines.
- Talk to your neighbor about the land survey that will take place.
- Meet with the surveyor if you have questions that need immediate answers.
Hire the Best Surveyors in the Area
Whether you need a land survey or plot plan, Pittsburgh Land Surveyors is here to help you. We’ve been delivering excellence in affordable land surveying solutions like mortgage surveys, construction surveys, as-built surveys, flood elevation certification surveys, and more. With our extensive experience, we are ready to survey properties of all sizes and types. For more information, give us a call today!
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