Why Site Surveys Matter
Before any design work begins, we need accurate measurements. Not 'close enough' measurements—accurate ones. A site survey provides the foundation for everything that follows. Skip it, and you risk designing a pool that violates setbacks or a patio that doesn't fit.
Types of Site Surveys
Boundary Survey
Confirms exactly where your property lines are. Essential if you're building near property boundaries or if there's any dispute about where your property ends. Cost: $500-$1,200
Topographic Survey
Shows elevation changes across your property. Critical for drainage design and required for hillside properties. Cost: $500-$1,500
As-Built Survey
Documents what's currently on the property—existing structures, utilities, trees, etc. Useful when city records are outdated. Cost: $500-$1,000
Combined Survey
Most backyard projects need a combined boundary and topographic survey. Cost: $800-$1,500
When You Need a Survey
- Building near property lines (pools require minimum 5' setback in LA)
- Hillside properties (topography affects everything)
- Properties with unclear boundaries
- Projects requiring grading permits
- Designs that need precise dimensions
What's Included in a Survey
A complete residential survey typically shows:
- Property boundaries with dimensions
- Location of all structures
- Elevations and grade changes
- Trees and significant landscaping
- Visible utilities (meters, cleanouts, valves)
- Easements and setback lines
- Fences and walls
💡 Pro Tip
Get the survey done early. Designers need this information before they can create accurate plans. Surveying after design starts can mean expensive revisions.
Survey vs. Measurements We Take
At Moda, we take detailed measurements during our initial site visit. For straightforward projects on flat lots with clear boundaries, our measurements are sufficient. But we recommend professional surveys for:
- Hillside properties
- Projects near property lines
- Properties with questionable boundaries
- Complex grading or drainage requirements
The $500-$1,500 survey cost is cheap insurance against designing something that won't fit or won't get permitted.
Finding a Surveyor in LA
Licensed land surveyors are registered with the State of California. We work with several who specialize in residential properties in Los Angeles. They typically need 1-2 weeks to schedule and complete the work.
The survey showed our fence was 18 inches inside our property line. Good thing we checked before building the pool. — Mark R.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a property survey cost in Los Angeles?
Basic boundary surveys: $500-$1,200. Combined boundary/topographic surveys: $800-$1,500. Complex hillside surveys can run higher.
Do I always need a survey for a pool?
Not always, but recommended when building near property lines. Pools require 5' minimum setback from property boundaries in LA.
How long does a survey take?
Usually 1-2 weeks from scheduling to receiving the final survey document.
What's the difference between a survey and contractor measurements?
Surveys are legally certified documents prepared by licensed surveyors. Contractor measurements are accurate for design but not legally binding for property boundaries.
