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What to Expect When Hiring a Land Survey Company in Ohio

If you’re buying, selling, or developing property in Ohio, working with a professional land survey company can save you time, money, and legal trouble. From resolving boundary disputes to preparing construction permits, a land survey ensures you have clear, legal documentation of your property’s boundaries and features.

Whether you're a homeowner in Columbus or managing a development in rural Ohio, understanding how the process works can help you choose the right surveyor and get the results you need.

Why Ohio Property Owners Need Land Surveys

"Land surveyor in a high-visibility vest using a total station in a rural Ohio field during a property boundary survey."

There are several common reasons to hire a land surveyor in Ohio:

  • Buying or selling property – Confirm the exact lot size and boundaries before closing.

  • Planning construction – Know where your legal limits are before adding a fence, garage, or home addition.

  • Resolving neighbor disputes – Prevent or resolve conflicts over property lines.

  • Subdividing land – Legally divide or adjust parcel boundaries.

In all these cases, a licensed land surveyor provides official documentation that can be used for legal filings, permits, or real estate transactions.

How to Choose a Reliable Land Survey Company in Ohio

Not all surveyors are the same. Choosing the right company helps ensure accuracy, timely service, and a stress-free experience. Look for:

  • Proper licensing – Surveyors must be licensed by the Ohio State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Surveyors.

  • Local experience – Firms familiar with your county or city understand local ordinances and land records.

  • Modern equipment – Surveyors who use GPS, total stations, drones, and mapping software often deliver faster, more accurate results.

  • Positive reviews or referrals – Check online ratings or ask neighbors and contractors for recommendations.

A locally based company will also be more familiar with Ohio’s terrain, access issues, and survey standards.

What the Survey Process Looks Like (Step-by-Step)

1. Initial Contact and Estimate

Once you contact a land survey company, you’ll be asked for your property address, parcel number, and survey purpose (e.g., construction, title transfer, dispute). Based on this info, the company will provide a quote.

Factors that affect price:

  • Property size

  • Type of survey (boundary, topographic, ALTA, etc.)

  • Terrain complexity (trees, slopes, fences)

  • Access to county property records

2. Records Research and Scheduling

Surveyors start by researching deeds, plats, and maps from thents.

Scheduling will depend on the company's availability, and weather delays are common in Ohio—especially during heavy rain or snow.

3. On-Site Field Work

Surveyors visit your property using GPS equipment, total stations, or drones. On-site work may include:

  • Locating and marking boundary corners

  • Measuring distances, slopes, and improvements

  • Identifying encroachments or access issues

  • Flagging lines for future construction or fence installation

Field time varies from a few hours to a full day or more depending on land size and accessibility.

4. Survey Drawing and Delivery

The surveyor will create a survey plat (map), which includes:

  • Legal boundary lines and accurate property line mapping

  • Buildings, fences, roads, and easements

  • Any visible encroachments or conflicts

  • Utility lines and right-of-way features*

The final report is typically delivered in PDF format and may also be printed. It can be used for real estate closings, zoning applications, or contractor planning.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a land survey company in Ohio is a smart move for anyone managing property decisions—whether you're building, buying, selling, or settling a boundary issue. A licensed surveyor provides the documentation and clarity needed to move forward with confidence.

Understanding the process up front helps you choose the right professional and ensures your project stays on track and compliant with local regulations.


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