The Different Types of Land Surveys Explained (And Which One You Need)

If you're planning to buy property, build a home, install a fence, or resolve a boundary issue, you’ve probably been told, “You’ll need a land survey.” But here’s the catch—there’s more than one kind.

At Gate City Survey, we often get asked: “What kind of survey do I need?” The answer depends on what you’re doing with your property. This guide will walk you through the most common types of land surveys and help you figure out which one fits your needs.

1. Boundary Survey

Purpose: To identify exactly where your property lines are (what land you own).

A boundary survey is the most common type—and often the most important. It marks the official edges of your property and identifies encroachments (like a neighbor’s shed or fence) that may cross the line.

You need this if:

• You’re buying or selling property

• You’re putting up a fence, wall, or addition

• You’re resolving a property line dispute

Pro tip: In New Hampshire, old stone walls often mark original boundary lines. A boundary survey will confirm whether they still match up with legal descriptions.

2. Topographic Survey

Purpose: To map the natural and manmade features on your land.

A topographic survey goes beyond property lines. It shows elevations, slopes, trees, driveways, buildings, drainage systems, and more. Engineers and architects use this data for site planning and design.

You need this if:

• You’re building a home or addition

• You’re doing grading, drainage, or landscaping

• Your contractor or architect requests one

Topographic surveys are especially important on hilly or wooded lots, which are common in Southern New Hampshire.

3. ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey

Purpose: To meet national standards for commercial property transactions.

An ALTA survey is a highly detailed survey required by title companies and lenders when dealing with commercial real estate. It includes boundaries, easements, zoning restrictions, and any potential encroachments.

You need this if:

• You’re buying or refinancing commercial property

• Your lender or title company requests one

These are more involved (and more expensive) than residential surveys but are essential for legal and financial protection in commercial deals.

4. Construction Layout (Staking) Survey

Purpose: To guide construction teams with precise location markers.

Once your project is designed, a construction survey lays out exactly where the foundation, utilities, roads, or other structures should go. It translates the plans into physical points on the ground.

You need this if:

• You’re breaking ground on a home or building

• You’re installing a driveway, septic, or retaining wall

• Your builder needs help locating exact points

Gate City Survey regularly works with local contractors to ensure their projects start in the right place—literally.

5. FEMA Elevation Certificate Survey

Purpose: To determine your property’s elevation in relation to flood zones.

If you’re in or near a floodplain, you may need an elevation certificate for insurance or construction purposes. A certified surveyor measures your property’s elevation and submits it to FEMA.

You need this if:

• Your lender requires flood insurance

• You’re building in a mapped flood zone

• You want to lower your flood insurance premiums

Some properties near rivers, wetlands, or low-lying areas in Nashua and surrounding towns fall into FEMA flood zones.

Which One Do You Need?

Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you decide:

Your Goal	Survey You Need
Buying or selling property	Boundary Survey
Building a house or addition	Topographic + Boundary Survey
Buying commercial property	ALTA/NSPS Survey
Installing a fence or driveway	Boundary Survey
Working in a flood zone	FEMA Elevation Certificate
Starting a construction project	Construction Layout Survey

Ready to Get Started?

Contact Gate City Survey today for a free consultation or quote. We’ll help you figure out exactly what kind of survey you need—and make sure your project starts on solid ground.