5 tips on how to find the right Surveyor

Due to the increasingly technical nature of the surveying profession, most surveyors hold a bachelor’s degree in surveying, mapping or geomatics. Such degree programs usually include courses such as calculus, geographic information systems (GIS) and cartography.

It stands to reason that a Surveyor is constantly learning with the fast evolution of technology.  Surveyors provide a high level of detail and reporting in the design or building phase of any construction.

But, like any profession Surveyors are not all the same but there are some key areas of expertise that you might find useful when faced with a choice.

1. Experience

Like any service that requires a high level of accountability you want to understand the experience a Surveyor or Survey Company have. How long have they been in business? What type of clients do they have? What type of work do they promote?

We’ve already established that the life of a quality surveyor requires constant learning and upskilling to stay abreast of the technology that their peers expect them to have. They need to be competitive and provide the type of reporting and detail that is expected.

Experience and technical expertise is something to consider as being very valuable. They have probably over time worked across many different fields and are knowledgeable in most situations.

2. Reputation

Surveyors work closely with architects, engineers, building designers and builders – their reputation is important!

Ask around, talk to your peers – as we know a good reputation is a slow snail but a bad one is quick, if the surveyor you are considering has had problems of any kind it will probably be knowledge that may be shared.

3. Attention to detail

A surveyor’s job is all about accuracy. They need to  determine boundaries, map topography, or do construction layouts.  A surveyor’s work needs to be perfect with a high attention to detail using the right technology for the job and output of information. Gaining some insight into their work methods will ensure you are aligned in your goals.

Enjoy working both outdoors & behind a computer

Surveyors work in high tech space. They need to understand how to operate highly technical equipment, process data, and produce survey maps using AutoCAD or similar programs.

At the same time, today’s surveyor will still need to spend time out in the field collecting data or staking for construction, sometimes in harsh weather conditions or over rugged terrain.

Being comfortable in both situations is a must for most Surveyors.

Possess both legal and mathematical knowledge

Despite using highly technical equipment, programs and scientific calculators, it is still important that a surveyor loves math and trigonometric equations.

Equally important is the knowledge of land law. If a surveyor is doing boundary surveys, creating legal descriptions and working with attorneys and property owners they need to be confident in their knowledge.

Land and building surveying really is a profession of never ending learning. Staying abreast of what is going in the industry, utilising the most up to date technology, working closely with their peers as well as being accountable and explicit in their intent.

These are all important traits when deciding which Surveyor or Surveying Company is going to match you and your clients needs.