What Does a Boundary Survey Involve?

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The next phase of the boundary survey involves a thorough field reconnaissance for the purpose of uncovering any boundary evidence, such as iron pipes or rods, monuments, walls, fences etc. This is a physical investigation of the parcel, and requires a keen knowledge of the types of evidence, land use patterns and local history. Reconnaissance is conducted in light of the “record boundaries”, and a determined surveyor will hunt tirelessly until the corner is found.

A field survey is then conducted to locate the evidence uncovered during the reconnaissance survey. Different methods are employed, including conventional total station traverses (a network of sight lines strategically placed throughout the parcel) and Global Positioning Surveys (GPS). SGC Engineering utilizes a full array of conventional and GPS instrumentation, and continually monitors equipment for accuracy and reliability. The methods and type of equipment used depends on factors such as land area, tree cover and required positional tolerances. All survey field measurements are verified back at the office and run through a comprehensive QA/QC procedure, including least squares analysis.

A preliminary plan of the survey is then drafted using modern CAD software. The next step involves analyzing the relationship of the found, physical evidence with the pre-determined “record boundaries”. Based on their thorough knowledge of deeds, evidence, and boundary retracement principles, SGC surveyors make determinations on the reliability of existing corners, as well as the replacement of missing corners. A final Boundary Survey Plat is prepared, displaying the results of the survey, and affixed with a professional land surveyors seal and signature.


SGC’s experienced surveyors have a thorough understanding of the research, methods, principles and laws relating to land boundary retracement.

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