What Atlantic Land Surveying Company Does and How to Work With Them

Atlantic Land Surveying Company provides boundary surveys, topographic mapping, and construction staking across South Carolina

Atlantic Land Surveying Company is a licensed surveying firm operating in South Carolina that handles the technical work property owners, developers, and contractors need before building, buying, or resolving boundary disputes. They measure and map land, establish property lines, and mark locations for construction—work that requires state licensure and specialized equipment.

The company serves residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Whether you're buying a home and need to confirm the property boundary, developing land and need a topographic map showing elevation changes, or building and need stakes marking where structures go, Atlantic Land Surveying performs the fieldwork and produces the documents required by local governments and lenders.

Key Takeaways

• Atlantic Land Surveying Company performs boundary surveys, topographic surveys, construction staking, and other technical mapping work required before property transactions or construction begins.
• A boundary survey establishes where your property line actually sits, which matters when buying, selling, or resolving disputes with neighbors.
• Construction staking marks the exact location and elevation where buildings, utilities, and other structures should be placed on the land.
• Surveys typically take one to three weeks from the time you request one, depending on property size, complexity, and the surveyor's schedule.
• Most lenders require a current survey before closing on a mortgage, and most municipalities require one before issuing a building permit.

When you need a boundary survey

A boundary survey establishes the legal limits of your property by measuring from recorded reference points and comparing those measurements to the deed and public records. The surveyor marks corners with stakes or monuments and produces a map showing the boundary line, any structures on the property, easements (like utility rights-of-way), and nearby features.

You typically need a boundary survey when buying property—most mortgage lenders require one before they will close the loan. You also need one if you are selling and the buyer's lender requires it, if you are building and the municipality requires it before issuing a permit, or if you have a dispute with a neighbor about where the property line actually sits. Some homeowners order one before installing a fence to confirm they are not building on the neighbor's land.

The cost and timeline depend on the property size and how easy it is to locate the original survey monuments. A straightforward residential lot may take one to two weeks; a larger or more complex property may take longer.

Topographic surveys for development and construction planning

A topographic survey maps the shape and elevation of the land itself—hills, valleys, drainage patterns, vegetation, and existing structures. This is different from a boundary survey because it focuses on what the land looks like, not just where the property line is. Developers use topographic surveys to plan how to build on sloped terrain, where water will drain, and how to position roads and utilities.

Contractors use topographic surveys to understand the site before starting work. Engineers use them to design drainage systems, foundations, and grading plans. If you are developing land or building on terrain with significant slope or drainage concerns, a topographic survey gives you the detailed picture you need to plan safely and legally.

Construction staking and as-built surveys

Construction staking is the process of marking the exact location and elevation where buildings, utilities, roads, and other structures should be placed. The surveyor sets stakes or marks in the ground that correspond to the construction plans, so the contractor knows precisely where to dig, build, or install utilities. This prevents costly mistakes and ensures the finished structure sits where the plans say it should.

An as-built survey is performed after construction is complete to confirm that what was actually built matches what was planned. Lenders, municipalities, and property owners sometimes require as-built surveys to verify that a building sits on the correct lot, that additions were built where permitted, or that utilities are in the right place.

How to contact Atlantic Land Surveying Company

To request a survey, contact Atlantic Land Surveying Company directly by phone or through their office. Be ready to describe the property location, the type of survey you need, and when you need it completed. If you are buying property, provide the address and let them know your lender's deadline. If you are building, provide the address and the name of your contractor or engineer.

The surveyor will ask questions about the property to estimate cost and timeline, then provide a quote. Once you approve, they will schedule the fieldwork. Most firms require payment before or upon completion of the survey.

What to expect during and after the survey

During the fieldwork, the surveyor and their crew will visit the property with equipment to measure distances, angles, and elevations. They may set stakes or temporary marks. This usually takes a few hours for a residential lot, longer for larger properties. You do not need to be present, though the surveyor may need access to the property.

After fieldwork is complete, the surveyor returns to the office to process measurements, create maps, and prepare the final documents. This typically takes one to two weeks. The finished product is a professional survey map—a legal document that shows property lines, dimensions, easements, and other relevant features. You receive copies to give to your lender, the municipality, your attorney, or whoever requested the survey.

Understanding survey costs and what affects them

Survey costs vary based on property size, location, terrain complexity, and the type of survey. A simple boundary survey of a small residential lot costs less than a topographic survey of a large development site or a survey of property in a remote area. Urban properties with clear reference points are usually faster and less expensive than rural properties where the surveyor must search for old monuments.

Ask for a written quote before committing. The quote should specify what work is included, the timeline, and the total cost. If the property is more complex than expected once fieldwork begins, the surveyor may contact you about additional charges, so clarify what is and is not included upfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a survey take?

Fieldwork typically takes a few hours to a full day depending on property size and complexity. The complete process—from your request to receiving the final map—usually takes one to three weeks. Larger or more difficult properties may take longer. Ask the surveyor for an estimated timeline when you request a quote.

Do I need to be home when the surveyor comes?

You do not need to be present for most surveys. The surveyor needs access to the property to take measurements, but they can usually do this without the owner there. If the property is gated or has restricted access, let the surveyor know in advance so they can arrange entry.

What if the survey shows my neighbor is on my property?

If a survey reveals that a neighbor's structure or fence sits on your land, you have several options: you can ask the neighbor to move it, you can allow it to stay and document your permission in writing, or you can pursue legal action. An attorney can advise you on the best course based on your situation and local law.

Will my lender accept a survey done by Atlantic Land Surveying Company?

Yes, provided the surveyor is licensed by the state of South Carolina. Ask your lender what they require—some want the survey done by a surveyor of their choice, others accept any licensed surveyor. Confirm this before hiring so you do not pay for a survey the lender will not accept.

Can I use an old survey instead of ordering a new one?

Some lenders and municipalities will accept a recent survey (usually less than five to ten years old), but many require a current one. Ask your lender or the building department before relying on an old survey. If the property has changed—additions built, land subdivided, easements added—a new survey is usually necessary.