Why PSW asks for a property survey early in the process

When working with a prospective lead, A PSW Intake Specialist will ask for a property survey for review by a project director before reaching out to you. Frequently asked questions we get are both “What is a property survey,” “why do I need one,” and “where can I get one?”

What is a Property Survey?

A Property survey is a drawing produced by a certified surveyor that is filed with the local township. A property survey depicts the existing residence, approved structures, and other addition to the property that was legally built and inspected by a certified township inspector. This document is submitted before and after the laying of the foundation and updated before and after any additions to the existing residence. A survey is also necessary for the approval of any future construction to your property, whether it is a wall, outdoor kitchen paver patio, new deck, or a swimming pool.

Amongst other details, a property plan will show the following:
Property Lines / Boundary Lines
Gores, Overlaps, and Gaps
Rights-of-Way, Easements, and Abandoned Roads
Existing Improvements
Water, Electric, Gas, Drains, Manhole Covers, Etc.
Access, Ingress, Egress
Zoning Classification

Why does PSW need a property survey from me?

The survey will be utilized in three stages of the process.

First, your project director will use it. The information in the property plan will assist them as they make informed recommendations about what is possible. While there are other factors, the property plan will show potential hurdles before they even visit the property.

Secondly, the design team will reference the property survey. The property plan will show the exact locations of the steel pins that mark your property line and will serve as control points to get an accurate 3D scan of the property so they can begin to create your vision. A survey will also show easements and setbacks which will guide the design team on how to place structures and additions that are in line with township ordinances, preventing unforeseeable delays due to permit rejections and/or zoning violations.

Finally, the Project Designer will take the survey and overlay the design that has been created to apply for all project permits. Showing the township the exact layout, to scale, is mandatory to the permitting process.

Where can I get a Property Survey?

You may be surprised to learn that your property survey is already available. They are part of the public record and available through your local township. If, for any reason, the document is not available, PSW can recommend a certified surveyor to assist you.