The choice of a survey is usually depending on the purpose for which you are going to used it. Actually, there are many types of land survey such as the property survey or limited boundary survey which require intensive study and investigation besides the field measurements.
A property survey notes the position of the markers and boundaries in relation to the record easements, improvements and features, deed restrictions, unresolved conflicts and encroachments.
A perimeter survey maps a strip along the boundaries to document boundary locations by noting their position with respect to the boundary monumentation and apparent improvements and features.
A zoning location survey notes the position of either existing or proposed improvements with respect to the applicable municipal setback requirements so it would be easier to determine the compliance of zoning requirements.
An improvement location survey notes the position between existing or proposed improvements with respect to the statutory requirements to determine compliance with said requirements.
An easement map reflects the position of existing or proposed easement with respect to the improvements and features plus boundary monumentation as well as visible evidence or records or easements.
A topographic survey gathers data about the elevation points on a piece of land and presents them as contour lines on a plot. The purpose is to know more about the natural and man made features of the land including its elevations and grading features.
A site plan survey is normally completed for the purpose of obtaining a building permit whether you are planning to construct an entire house or as an addition to an existing house.
A subdivision survey, also called as subdivision platting, basically splits a tract of land into smaller parcels including right or way, parkland dedication, drainage and utility easements as well as designating of the residential and commercial lots.
An ALTA/ CSM survey is a boundary survey that shows improvements, easements, rights of way and other elements that may affect the ownership of the land and is specifically designed to satisfy the needs of lenders, corporations and title companies. In other words, it is a specialized survey that meets the specific needs of title insurance companies.