Land Surveying: What It Is and Why It Matters in Canada
Land surveying is a crucial profession, involving the precise measurement and mapping of land, which is essential for land development, property ownership, and construction projects. In Canada, only licensed surveyors, such as Canada Lands Surveyors (CLS) and British Columbia Land Surveyors (BCLS), are authorized to conduct legal land surveys and provide property descriptions in their respective jurisdictions. These professionals play an essential role in various real estate, development, and construction activities.
The Role of Professional Land Surveyors
Professional land surveyors are responsible for measuring land, analyzing topographic data, and creating accurate maps. Their work supports everything from determining property boundaries to aiding construction and land subdivision. A land survey is often needed before purchasing real estate, subdividing a parcel, or starting construction to avoid boundary disputes and unexpected costs. Surveyors don’t determine ownership but instead retrace deed lines, using the property description provided by the client, often found in title insurance reports or grant deeds.
In British Columbia, BC Land Surveyors (BCLS) manage surveys that comply with provincial regulations and are instrumental in establishing precise land boundaries within BC. Canada Lands Surveyors (CLS), on the other hand, work on federal and Indigenous lands across Canada, such as national parks and offshore areas, following federal guidelines to ensure accurate and legally sound surveying practices.
What Does a Survey Involve? – Land Surveying What It Is
Surveying teams are typically composed of a party chief and several surveying technicians who use specialized equipment to gather field data. Technicians assist the party chief in adjusting and operating tools like the total station, which measures and records angles and distances simultaneously. With advances in technology, surveyors now rely on GPS, which enables fast, highly accurate surveying and mapping, significantly reducing equipment needs and labor hours in many areas.
For the best results, surveyors need to understand the survey’s purpose, which ensures they collect the most relevant information. Costs for surveys vary depending on factors such as the size and shape of the property, type of survey needed, property description, terrain, and location.
Reasons to Hire a Land Surveyor
Land surveyors provide essential services for a range of clients and purposes, including:
- Land Development: Surveyors assist developers in subdividing land and preparing it for residential or commercial use.
- Commercial Refinancing: Surveyors provide updated property descriptions and boundary information necessary for refinancing loans.
- Boundary Resolutions: When property lines are unclear or disputed, surveyors help clarify boundaries to resolve conflicts.
- Flood Certifications: Surveyors measure land elevation and determine flood risk, often required for insurance or development in flood-prone areas.
Canada Lands and BC Land Surveyors: Key to Responsible Development
In Canada, BC Land Surveyors and Canada Lands Surveyors hold an exclusive responsibility for legally defining land boundaries in their regions. Their work is foundational to supporting responsible land use, ensuring that property lines are clear, and assisting in the stewardship of Canada’s unique landscapes. Hiring a qualified land surveyor, especially before significant transactions or construction projects, is a proactive step to avoid costly mistakes and ensure compliance with regional and federal regulations.