Ep 6 - On Point Land Survey - a podcast by Brian Cook And Kindra Cox

On the January 9, 2020 episode of The Brian and Kindra show, they visited with Mike Gossett of On Point Land Survey.  On Point Land Survey is a local, family owned and operated survey company. Mike, owner of On Point Land Survey has 20 years of experience in the survey business and took some time to share some information about surveys with Brian and Kindra on their radio program.  

Mike shared that as a professional surveyor, he is able to provide 3 specific services.   He can create new boundaries when landowners need them established.  He can research and mark existing boundaries.  Last, surveyors can act as expert witnesses in a court of law when property boundary disputes arise. Most often surveyors are used in boundary placements. 

 

Mike said surveying requires math, science and even some knowledge of history.  For example, some of the most challenging surveys are the ones that include old, abandoned railroads. Often, there is little or no evidence left of where that railroad lay making it a challenge to find the specific property lines.  Mike shared that he uses evidence to help determine property lines including fences, old walls, old (survey) pins or pipes in the ground.  There can be quite a bit of evidence that has been left over the past 120 years of Oklahoma being surveyed and since statehood.  Mike also uses the geographical evidence to help determine the correct property boundaries.  

Other services Mike said surveyors provide are varied.  For example, as Brian was working on his company’s new office building, Mike assisted in seeking solutions to some groundwater issues that were created by the parking lot being a different level than the office.  By surveying the elevation of the land, Mike is able to help find solutions to divert water to avoid flooding issues.  

Additionally, surveyors are able to perform surveys where land elevation is measured compared to a flood zone.  This allows the surveyor to provide an elevation certificate that can potentially help a homeowner decrease their flood insurance requirements.  Occasionally, the elevation certificate can even provide FEMA the information they require to remove a property from a flood zone.  This process is very specific and can be lengthy.  Mike shared an example in which he worked with Brian recently to assist a landowner in this process.  

Often, we think of survey needs for country properties.  However, properties located in city limits have needs for surveys as well.  As previously discussed, issues with water diversion and elevation certificates may be necessary. Other times, home owners may need an updated survey in order to build a new fence or if they are planning an addition to their home or even if they are planning to build a shop.  Be sure to use a professional surveyor when you have these needs arise.  As always, if you are unsure who to call, your local Real Estate professional can help guide you to a fellow professional.  As always, best wishes in your real estate adventures! 

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