As-Built Survey

As-built surveys in Clanton & Central Alabama

An as-built survey shows improvements to the land as they actually are at a given point in time – during construction to check the work against the site plan, and at the end to obtain the Certificate of Occupancy.

Progress checks during construction
Final survey for the CO
Independent licensed surveyor

Get a quote (205) 688-6656

Two GPS receivers on tripods in a field during an as-built survey

When you need one

A check-up of the work – along the way and at the end

Every new building or addition starts with a site plan showing where and how big the work will be. As-built surveys (also called design surveys) measure what has actually been built and compare it with that plan.

During construction

Surveys at intervals show whether the work follows the authorized plan and how much has been completed – useful for schedules, payments and deadline extensions.

Zoning problems found early

If a setback or zoning violation shows up, corrective action can be planned immediately – far cheaper than discovering it at the final inspection.

Certificate of Occupancy

On completion, a final as-built survey is needed to obtain the CO from the local building and zoning officials.

Why it matters who does it

The fox should not watch the hen house

Occasionally contractors want to survey their own work to meet contract agreements. That is a conflict of interest. It is in the owner’s best interest to work directly with a third party – a licensed, experienced surveyor. Mistakes can be costly, may shut down a project or lead to a Certificate of Occupancy denial.

Local and state authorities that regulate building and zoning, as well as general contractors, engineers and banks, may require as-built surveys during your project – and the number and timing may be set by local rules or by the owner. A diligent contractor calls for them several times to verify compliance and measure progress against the timeline.

Our as-built surveys meet or exceed the requirements of local and state regulations, and we help contractors measure the progress of new construction.

Total station set up next to a steel building under construction

Questions & answers

As-built survey questions

What does an as-built survey show?

The location and dimensions of what has been built – buildings, additions, driveways, utilities and other improvements – compared with the property lines, setbacks and the approved site plan.

How many as-built surveys does a project need?

It depends on local rules, the lender and the owner. Many projects need one when the foundation is in and a final one for the Certificate of Occupancy; larger projects use several progress surveys.

Is an as-built the same as a foundation survey?

A foundation survey is a specific as-built taken right after the foundation is poured. A final as-built documents the finished project.