By R.S. Engineering Co., Inc.

11/04/2022 A topographic survey is used to locate all surface features on a property. It depicts all-natural features and elevations, and you may have arrived on this page to learn more about topographical surveys in Santa Monica, CA.


In this article, you will learn more about the fundamentals of topographic surveys. The next time you speak with a surveyor, you will understand what they are trying to discuss with you for your property.


When Is a Topographic Survey Needed?
The local government requires a topographic survey and a boundary survey, to determine the existing condition and elevations of a site. Architects and engineers use these to create accurate and appropriate designs based on the existing condition of the site.


A topographic survey may be required as part of a real estate transaction, construction project, or civil engineering design, for example:

• Building a new house or structure
  
• Projects for home improvement or remodeling
  
• Designs for utilities
  
• Bridge and road upgrades or designs
  
• Volumetric and stockpile calculations
  
• Project evaluation
  
• Comply with construction code regulatory requirements
  
• Information on the new road's layout
  
• Restoration of the environment
  

Typical Topographic Survey Process
This is the typical topographic survey process that you must be aware of to understand how it is carried out and the results. The length of this process is determined by the size of the area to be covered as well as the complexity of the terrain.

1. Information gathering, such as geographical area, level of detail, accuracy, and data output.
   
2. Creating a timetable and pricing
   
3. On-site survey data collection
   
4. Internal quality control by a senior member of the staff
   
5. Final survey results delivery
   

Who Needs a Topographic Survey
An architect needs a topographic survey to create a 2D and 3D design for a construction site. Engineers can use this to see the land surface elevation and determine the need for filling and cutting to modify the property's grade.


It is also required by governmental bodies when developing and enforcing construction and zoning regulations, evaluating environmental projects, and assessing existing infrastructure and necessary revisions. A topographic map can also be used by geologists, foresters, formers, and hydrologists.


Topographic Surveying Equipment
Special tools are used to conduct a topographic survey depending on the project specification and terrain conditions, such as

• Theodolite
  
• Total Station
  
• DGPS with Real Time Kinematic (RTK)
  
• Digital Levelling Instrument
  
• Lidar System
  
• Drone Photogrammetry
  

Why Is Topographic Survey Important?
Topographic surveys are essential for site planning and decision-making. It provides precise land measurements and a clear indication of the layout of an existing site. This can be used to make decisions about repositioning existing boundaries, building new structures, and designing drainage systems.


It also saves time and reduces the possibility of costly errors by providing accurate data from topographic surveys. An accurate survey of all features is required for project planning, design, and construction, and it prevents costly delays at any stage of development.


The Importance of Slope Band Analysis in Topographic Survey
Slope band analysis maps are essential during the design phase of new construction. This will be used to calculate how much residential square footage can be built.


An architectural or topographic survey of the property should be completed prior to conducting a slope band analysis. The slope is calculated by dividing the difference in elevation between two points by the lateral distance between those points.


3 Types of Topographic Surveys
A topographic survey is classified according to its purpose and desired output. The following are the various types of topographic surveys:

1. As-Built Survey
   

This ensures that all construction has been completed correctly and in accordance with the plan. It provides information needed for construction and future projects. This serves as a foundation for documenting all changes made during the work and quickly obtaining information about any design changes. It is also used to obtain a certificate of completion from a government agency.

2. Mortgage Survey
   

It is a type of simple topographic survey that is typically required for banks and lending institutions to provide financing. This is to demonstrate that no structures are encroaching on the property.

3. Hydrographic Survey
   

It refers to the submarine topography, which gathers data relating to any body of water such as;

• Bottom contours
  
• The shoreline's shape and features
  
• Water level
  
• Tide, wave, and current characteristics
  
• Fixed object location
  
• Taking high water mark measurements
  
• Water's physical and chemical properties
  
• Landmarks used for navigation
  

These are some of the most important things to consider when working with a surveyor for topographical surveys for the construction of your new home, buildings, or any property. It is a detailed and important process in the construction of your site, so always choose a trustworthy, experienced, and skilled surveyor for topographical surveys in your area.