Geodesy Journal

Surveyors are in higher demand across Mobile, Alabama. Development continues across the area. Rules are also more detailed. Property owners need clear land information. Surveyors provide data to help plan, build, and improve property. Without clear survey information, projects can face delays, confusion, and added costs. Mobile’s location near the coast adds challenges. Flood zones, older property records, and changing land use increase the need for clear surveys. Many properties in Mobile have conditions that need review. Today, surveyors help projects move forward without delays. Surveyors are not used only for large developments anymore. Many homeowners and small property owners now rely on surveys. Surveys are often done before work starts. A survey confirms boundaries, shows limits, and helps avoid problems before construction or improvements begin. How Development and Coastal Rules Are Driving Demand Growth across Mobile has increased the need for surveys. New homes, renovations,...

  LiDAR mapping is becoming more common. Engineers, surveyors, and planners use it to collect land data faster than before. As development and infrastructure projects increase, accurate elevation data is more important than ever. LiDAR mapping creates clear views of the land. The data is detailed and easy to review. This technology helps with planning and reduces surprises during construction. In Dothan, it is now a trusted tool for large and complex projects that need accurate land data. As projects move from planning to construction, decision-makers need reliable information. LiDAR mapping provides this by showing the land as it exists today. It does not rely on older maps. How Land Development and Infrastructure Are Driving Demand Growth in and around Dothan has increased the need for land analysis. Roads, drainage systems, utilities, and new developments all depend on elevation data. If the data is not accurate, projects can face delays or added costs. LiDAR mapping allows lar...

When building or upgrading a home in Prattville, Alabama, placing the HVAC system at the right height is more important than ever, especially in areas with low elevation or uneven terrain. This article explains how using flood elevation certificate data helps homeowners and builders set proper HVAC pad height and location to avoid water damage, meet inspection standards, and keep systems running efficiently. If you’re planning a new installation or expansion, this guide will help you avoid costly mistakes. HVAC Vulnerability in Elevation-Sensitive Neighborhoods In many parts of Prattville, homes are being built in areas with lower lot elevations or sloped yards. These conditions increase the risk of water reaching HVAC equipment placed too close to the ground. If the pad is set too low, even a moderate rain can lead to: Rust and corrosion Shortened equipment life Mold growth Insurance claims being denied due to improper installation Determining the Required Height Using Flood Elevatio...

When building near Daphne’s scenic waterfronts, home entry design becomes more than just a visual choice; it's a critical part of meeting elevation standards. Homeowners and builders must follow FEMA guidelines for minimum floor height while still creating safe, attractive, and accessible entries. This article explains how entry design can meet elevation requirements without sacrificing style or function. Architectural Demands of Building on Daphne’s Waterfront Terrain Waterfront homes in Daphne often face challenges due to sloped ground and changing terrain. The natural grade near the shoreline can change quickly, which affects where and how entry points should be placed. These homes must also blend with the area’s coastal character, where views and curb appeal matter. Designing around these conditions means planning for both visual balance and regulatory rules. Builders need to think about how stairs, porches, and front walks connect to the rest of the structure without standing...

When building in flood-sensitive zones in Knoxville, getting the elevation right is not just about the house, it's also about where and how utilities are installed. This article explores how property owners and builders can meet FEMA elevation rules while placing water meters, breaker panels, and HVAC units in safe and accessible areas. Integrating Utility Access into Elevated Foundations Homes built above flood levels often face challenges with basic utility placement. Knoxville’s floodplain areas require water meters, electrical panels, and HVAC units to be above base flood elevation (BFE). Yet these same components must also remain easy to reach for use and maintenance. Meeting both goals accessibility and compliance requires careful planning from the start. Elevation Certificate Guidance on Utility Panel Placement FEMA guidelines are clear: critical utilities must be placed above BFE. An elevation certificate helps define where that benchmark falls on the lot. Without this da...