5 Elements Included in an As-Built Survey: A Detailed Breakdown

Sometimes, plans change depending upon the situation. Utilities may get rerouted or certain features may be changed or updated. This is why an as-built survey is so vital to provide a dependable record of the finished project as it is, and not how it was originally designed.

At Ballentine Associates, we keep the big picture in mind without losing sight of the minute details that can make or break a project. Since 1979, we’ve helped clients anticipate challenges and mitigate risk through our unwavering dedication to providing measurable value to their projects for more than 45 years. We don’t want to merely be a vendor, we want to be your partner in success. Please contact us. We’d love to know more about your project. 

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth view of the details surrounding an as-built survey and 5 elements that are essential to its success. 

What Is an As-Built Survey?

As-built surveys are a detailed record of structures as they were actually built, not how they were originally supposed to be built. This includes any adjustments made during construction. It’s more accurate than looking at the original design documents, because an as-built survey takes into account real-world changes.

Think of it this way: The as-built survey serves as a final draft of a project in reality.

What Information Is Provided With an As-Built Survey? 5 Elements

1. Planimetric Elements

All 2D elements existing on the site after construction is completed are accurately located as part of this scope. This includes parking areas, driveways, buildings, dumpster pads, transformer pads, retaining walls, fences, landscape areas, and miscellaneous paved or impervious surfaces. 

With these elements accurately located, variations in the sizes, shapes, and/or location of these elements in relation to the design documents can be reviewed. The as-built survey will often include a summary of the post-construction parking space count and impervious surface area (ISA) on the site, which are used to confirm compliance with zoning and stormwater regulations, respectively.

2. Utility Construction

Utilities such as water and sanitary sewer are accurately located after they are constructed to ensure compliance with the permitted designs. Sanitary sewer manholes and lines are typically located both horizontally and vertically, while water lines and associated features such as valves, hydrants, and meters are typically located only horizontally, although a growing number of municipalities require vertical as-built information for water lines. Other utilities such as gas, electric, and telecommunications are sometimes located using SUE practices as part of the as-built process.

3. Topography and Critical Elevations

As-built surveys often include the collection of post-construction topographic data to allow owners/engineers to confirm that the site grading was performed correctly. This is especially important in areas where handicapped accessibility is required. The survey often includes measurement of other critical elevations such as the finished floor(s) of a building.

4. Storm Drainage Facilities & Stormwater Control Measures

Storm drainage facilities such as drain inlets and pipes, and stormwater control measures (SCM’s) such as wet ponds, stormwater wetlands, and bioretention cells all must be constructed in compliance with the approved designs in order for them to function correctly. A detailed and accurate as-built survey of an SCM typically reveals whether the constructed size, shape, grading, and outlet structure configuration fall within the acceptable tolerances. This as-built survey scope is a critical part of the engineering certification process for SCM’s.

5. Compliance with ALTA Standards

Commercial lenders typically require that a title insurance policy be obtained for the property. Title insurance companies often require that a survey meeting a stringent set of standards be performed before issuing a policy. These standards are referred to as ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey standards and they require the survey to show an accurate property boundary, easements on the property, visible utilities, zoning, parking spaces, title exceptions, and other items that help identify potential risk. A post-construction ALTA survey is typically the term used for an ALTA survey conducted after construction is completed.

When Are As-Built Surveys Conducted?

These are typically done after the construction is complete, although they can also be done in stages. This is more common in larger projects, where as-built surveys can capture changes over time. Often, these surveys are required before occupancy certificates are issued.

What Are the Benefits of As-Built Surveys?

We mentioned some of the benefits above, but the bottom line is that it provides an accurate, up-to-date documentation of the current project. This way it can be easily compared to what was designed and approved in the original plans.

In addition, if there are needs for future renovations and maintenance, these surveys provide the reliable data that is needed—especially if expansions are on the horizon.

For Comprehensive and Accurate Surveys, Partner With Our Team and Discover Why We’re one of the Most Trusted Firms in the Region

When you’re planning a large venture or construction project, there’s no room for failure. Even the slightest miscalculation results in wasted time and money. You can rest assured that when you work with Ballentine Associates, you get an experienced, dedicated team that embraces integrity and commitment. We’re much more than mere vendors. 

We work alongside your team, combining seamless communication with modern technology to provide precise, reliable information you can trust. Want to learn more? Tell us about your project!