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A boundary survey is a land survey in which monuments are either found or set to mark the boundaries of a specified parcel of land. A current title commitment is useful because it includes the legal description and exceptions (such as easements) for the subject property.

The first step in performing a boundary survey is a search for evidence such as existing property corner monuments (both on the subject property and on adjacent properties), block corners, subdivision corners, and section corners. Once a sufficient amount of monumentation and other evidence (fences and other lines of occupation) are located, a series of measurements is performed. These measurements are then compared to the legal descriptions for the subject parcel and adjoining parcels. A determination of the property boundary is made, giving consideration to the accuracy of found monuments, seniority of the subject parcel, and any other evidence discovered.

After the determination of the boundary location, property monuments are placed at each angle point or change of direction, such as the beginning or end of a curve. The monument will usually be a steel pin (granite or concrete bounds may also be set but usually at additional cost) driven flush with or beneath the surface of the ground. A cap identifying the registration number of the surveyor responsible for setting the monument should be placed atop the steel pin. If it is more practical, monuments may be placed on an extension of the line. These types of monuments are called offsets, and are usually found on sidewalks or curbheads. Offset monuments are easier to find and to protect from damage, but may be mistaken as the actual property corner.

In most states and communities, when a monumented land survey or boundary survey is performed, a land survey plat or plan is prepared and recorded in the appropriate public office designated to receive such documents. One of the purposes of recording this information is to provide survey data for subsequent land surveys. It also makes the results of the monumented land survey a matter of public record, which may help to protect your interests in the property.

The land survey plat includes several items. These items include a scale drawing of the boundaries of the parcel, all dimensions necessary to establish the boundary in the field, a description of all monuments - both found and set- which mark the boundaries of the property, a description of all control monuments used in conducting the survey, and any conflicting boundary evidence. The land survey plat will also include a statement by the surveyor that the survey was performed either by him or under his direct responsibility, supervision, and checking.

A revised survey plat, or planimetric survey, is simply a land survey plat with additional information. It shows the location of all structures (improvements) situated on the subject parcel, easements, visible encroachments, and any fences, hedges, or walls on or within five feet of both sides of all boundaries of the subject parcel. In addition, the revised survey plat must show the location on the subject parcel of all visible utilities and underground utilities for which there is visible surface evidence. It may also show the location of easements, underground utilities for which record evidence is available from the county clerk and recorder, or for which information is available from the appropriate utility company.