How Much Would It Cost To Have My Property Surveyed?

How much does a land survey cost?

The cost of a land survey depends upon several factors such as the type of survey required, the type of terrain and vegetation, the availability of record documents and controlling monuments, and whether or not the State will require* that a map be recorded detailing the survey work that was done. If your property is already included in a previously recorded survey or plat, you may only need to have the corner monuments verified or replaced and line points set along the property line to verify the boundary. If you are not sure about your property, Harmsen would welcome the opportunity to do the initial research and give you a free cost estimate. 
     
Choosing the best land surveyor

The competency and experience of a land surveyor should be determined before they are selected to perform the survey work. Ask to see samples of previous work the land surveyor has done. Ask for references and make sure they have a good reputation. You want a surveying company that will stand behind their work in case there is a boundary dispute. More importantly, disputes can be prevented by correctly researched, performed, and documented surveys. You also want to find a survey company that will still be around when and if you need future surveying on your property, as they will be able to use the previous work (which you paid for) as a basis for the additional work. A complete and correct survey that meets your needs and legal requirements may cost more now but will be less expensive in the long run and will add value to your property. 

And another consideration... 

Prior to a law that was passed in 1973, surveyors were not required to make their maps and information public. As a result, many survey maps are not available except to surveyors who own the maps and documents that were prepared prior to that year. Harmsen has been surveying Snohomish, King, Island, and Skagit counties for more than 40 years.  We have also acquired companies which own extensive survey records dating as far back as 1913.  Having these unrecorded documents available to our surveyors allows us to prepare more accurate surveys using earlier surveys that were based on evidence that is no longer in existence. Thus, having these unrecorded surveys also helps us perform current surveys more efficiently, and as a result, at a lower cost.

Harmsen is dedicated to providing land owners with prompt responses and reliable surveying services. Please call us at (360) 794-7811 for an estimate or fill out our online estimate request.

*The State of Washington requires that a Record of Survey map be recorded with the governing agency (County) within 90 days of the completion of work, when establishing a property boundary, not previously established. RCW 58.09