Planning a new home addition? Putting up a fence? Pouring a driveway or garage slab? Before the first shovel hits the ground, there’s one essential step many homeowners overlook: getting a professional land survey.
At BLAZE Design Inc., we’ve seen how surveying early can save homeowners time, money, and legal headaches. Whether you’re building in Vermont or New York, here’s why a survey should be your first move—and what you need to know before beginning any construction on your property.
Why Surveying Matters for Home Projects
Homeowners often assume they know where their property starts and ends. But even a small mistake—like building a shed a few feet over the line—can cause major legal issues or force you to remove a completed structure. A boundary survey eliminates guesswork by clearly marking your property limits.
In addition to protecting your boundaries, a survey helps with:
- Securing building permits
- Meeting zoning and setback regulations
- Understanding terrain and drainage
- Avoiding encroachments
- Managing risk in flood zones
Types of Surveys Homeowners May Need
Different projects call for different surveys. Here are a few commonly requested by residential clients:
- Boundary Survey – Confirms property lines and corners; ideal before building fences, additions, or driveways.
- Topographic Survey – Maps elevation changes and features like trees, slopes, and drainage; useful for grading and landscaping.
- Elevation Certificate – Essential for properties in flood zones to determine flood insurance rates and compliance with FEMA standards.
- Subdivision Survey – Needed if you plan to divide a parcel into multiple lots for development or sale.
When Should You Schedule a Survey?
If you’re aiming to build in the warmer months, don’t wait until spring to call a surveyor. BLAZE Design Inc. works throughout the winter to help homeowners stay ahead. By surveying your land early, you’ll have your designs, permits, and approvals ready long before the ground thaws—keeping your project on track and avoiding seasonal backlogs.
What to Expect from the Surveying Process
Once scheduled, our team will visit your property with advanced GPS and total station equipment to collect precise data. We’ll mark boundaries, assess terrain, and produce clear documentation that you—and your contractors—can rely on. If you’re working with an architect or engineer, this data becomes a vital part of your building plans.
Work with Trusted Local Experts
At BLAZE Design Inc., we’ve built a reputation throughout Vermont and New York for accurate, timely, and cost-effective land surveying. Founded in 2007 by veteran surveyor David E. Spurr, our firm brings over four decades of combined military and civilian experience to every residential project.
We understand that for homeowners, every inch matters. That’s why we’re committed to providing detailed, high-quality reports that protect your property and support smooth construction.
Get Started Before You Build
Surveying might not be the most exciting part of a home project—but it’s one of the most important. Before construction begins, take the time to verify your boundaries, terrain, and compliance. It’s the smartest way to protect your investment.
Contact BLAZE Design Inc. at 802-442-2892 today to schedule your residential land survey and build with confidence from the ground up.