What is a Property Survey and Why is It Important for Landscape Design?

Frequently Asked Questions

A property survey is a detailed document that outlines the boundaries, structures, easements, and other essential features of your property. Created by a licensed surveyor, it serves as a key reference for landscaping, construction, and legal purposes.

Why Do We Need Your Property Survey?

Your property survey plays a critical role in our design process. It allows us to:
✅ Understand your property’s exact layout, including boundaries, existing structures, and easements.
✅ Accurately plan the placement of landscape elements such as pavers, fencing, artificial turf, outdoor kitchens, and patios.
✅ Take rough measurements to provide accurate estimates for materials and installation.
✅ Ensure compliance with Homeowners Association (HOA) requirements, as some HOAs require a detailed landscape plan with the design and positioning of all elements.

Pool Surveys & Engineering Plans

If your project includes a pool or other structural elements, we also need a pool survey or engineering plan. These documents provide precise measurements of the pool’s placement, deck area, drainage, and other structural details. They help us:
✅ Design around existing features without interfering with setbacks, utilities, or drainage.
✅ Ensure proper spacing for landscape elements like patios, seating areas, or plant beds.
✅ Avoid conflicts with safety regulations and HOA requirements.

Where Can You Find Your Property Survey?

If you don’t have a copy of your survey on hand, you may be able to obtain one from:
📌 Your closing documents – The survey is often included in the paperwork you received when purchasing your home.
📌 Your local property appraiser’s office or county records – Some counties provide access to property surveys online or by request.
📌 Your HOA or builder – If your home was recently built, the developer or HOA may have a copy on file.
📌 A licensed surveyor – If you can’t locate an existing survey, you may need to hire a professional surveyor to create a new one.

How to Provide Your Property Survey

To ensure we receive a clear, accurate version of your survey, you can:
✔️ Scan it using a scanner or printer and send us a high-quality digital copy.
✔️ Use your smartphone to scan it properly (see instructions below).
✔️ Provide us with a physical copy if scanning is not an option.

Good Digital Version of a Survey

How to Scan Your Survey Properly Using a Smartphone

If you don’t have a scanner, you can use your smartphone to scan your survey. Here’s how:

For Android Users:

  1. Open the Google Drive app.
  2. Tap the “+” button and select “Scan”.
  3. Lay the survey flat on a well-lit surface, avoiding shadows and glare.
  4. Align the camera and take the scan, ensuring all edges are visible.
  5. Adjust the corners if needed and save as a PDF.

For iPhone Users:

  1. Open the Notes app.
  2. Create a new note and tap the camera icon, then select “Scan Documents”.
  3. Place the survey on a flat, well-lit surface, making sure all details are captured.
  4. Hold the phone steady, and it will automatically scan the document.
  5. Adjust the scan if necessary and save it as a PDF.
Scanned Version of a Survey using Smartphone

Example of a Bad Scan

A poor-quality scan can delay the design process and cause errors. Here’s what to avoid:
Blurry or distorted text and lines—makes measurements difficult to read.
Shadows or glare—can obscure important details.
Cut-off edges—missing sections may leave out key property features.
Angled photos instead of scans—distorts proportions and reduces accuracy.

By providing a clear and properly scanned survey, you’ll help us create a well-planned, precise design that aligns with your vision and meets all necessary requirements.

If you have any questions or need assistance with scanning, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help!

If you’re ready to talk about the project that’s been on your mind, or you just want to spruce up the yard – give us a call today – we’ll work hard to make you feel glad you did!

(561) 448 0595