What Is a Topographic Survey and When Do You Need One?

Tucson Arizona skyline with surrounding terrain—ideal setting to illustrate the importance of a topographic survey for site planning and elevation analysis.

Thinking of building in Arizona? Whether you’re planning a custom home in Scottsdale or a commercial project in Tucson, chances are you’ll come across the term topographic survey early in the process. But what exactly is it, and why might you need one? In this guide, we’ll break it down in simple terms—no jargon, just […]

FEMA Elevation Certificate vs. Elevation Survey: Key Differences

Land surveyor conducting an elevation survey near a residential home in a flood-prone area for FEMA Elevation Certificate documentation.

With monsoon storms, desert drainage systems, and unpredictable flash flooding, flood risk is a real concern in many parts of Arizona. Whether you’re buying a home, building a commercial property, or seeking flood insurance, understanding the land’s elevation is crucial. This is where tools like an elevation survey and the FEMA Elevation Certificate come into […]

Top 7 Reasons to Get a Boundary Survey Before You Buy Property

Licensed surveyor conducting a boundary survey in front of a residential property in Arizona

Before signing any dotted line on a real estate deal, there’s one crucial step many overlook: the boundary survey. Whether you’re purchasing residential land or a commercial lot, knowing exactly where your property lines fall is not just helpful—it’s essential. A boundary survey is a specialized process conducted by a licensed land surveyor to establish […]