Who to Hire for Land Surveys

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

If you are asking who conducts surveys, the answer is a licensed land surveyor who measures your property's boundaries and features. These pros hold state licensure, hold degrees in geomatics or related fields, pass the NCEES exam, and work for at least four years under a licensed surveyor with ongoing continuing education.

Hiring a licensed pro ensures accurate measurements, legal compliance, and clear documentation. Surveyors understand property and easement laws and can coordinate with officials and civil engineers when needed.

Benefits of Hiring a Land Surveyor for a Land Survey

Land surveying is a technical discipline that requires licensed expertise. A qualified land surveyor delivers precise measurements, uses advanced tools and software, and understands complex property and easement laws. Professional surveys align with existing records and requirements, reducing boundary disputes and confusion during real estate or construction planning.

Here are some of the top benefits of hiring a land surveyor:

• Ensures accurate property boundary identification

• Meets state licensing and continuing education requirements

• Applies analytical methods to reconcile records and measurements

• Uses specialized surveying equipment and software

• Produces detailed drawings delivered electronically

• Understands complex property and easement laws

• Coordinates with officials, engineers, and other surveyors

• Brings years of supervised, professional field experience

• Identifies discrepancies with existing records early

• Supports real estate and construction planning decisions

If you have a challenging property boundary issue or need official documentation for a real estate transaction, consider a land surveyor near you to ensure the job is done accurately and meets legal requirements.

Can I Hire a Civil Engineer for a Land Survey?

Civil engineers are not trained to complete land surveys. They design and oversee infrastructure projects and often work for consulting firms, government agencies, or research and development teams. 

Land surveyors handle mapping, boundary determinations, and construction layouts. The two disciplines frequently collaborate to deliver residential and commercial projects.

How Do Land Surveyors Complete Land Surveys?

A land surveyor follows a set process to establish legal boundaries and document site details. Expect research, calculations, fieldwork, and a final drawing that reflects accurate, verifiable findings. The full timeline depends on property size and scope, ranging from a few days to a few weeks.

The standard process is as follows:

1. Research: Retrieve subdivision plats and deeds from the recorder of deeds.

2. Calculations: Determine corner locations using gathered records and prior surveys.

3. Field work: Visit the site and use specialized tools, such as metal detectors.

4. Drawing creation: Convert field results into a detailed property drawing.

5. Deliverables: Send the drawing electronically, often as a PDF.

The process can take a few days to a few weeks, depending on the property's size.

How Much Does a Land Survey Cost?

The cost of a land survey ranges from $376 to $768 for most homeowners. The buyer or seller may pay, depending on who requests the survey. Pricing depends on your location, property size, survey type, the availability of parcel information, and the time of year. Different survey types come with different costs.

Special maps or documentation can increase the price. Larger properties and complex surveys take longer and cost more. When comparing quotes and confirming who does land surveys in your area, ask which documents are included and how site conditions affect pricing.