The hook
Records research extends far beyond the county recorder. Private survey archives, neighbor recollections, utility-company records, historical aerials, oral histories — all may inform a boundary determination. The PS exam tests breadth.
| Source | What it provides | Reliability |
|---|---|---|
| County Recorder | Recorded deeds, plats, easements | High — official record |
| County Surveyor / Engineer | Section corner records, ROW maps | High |
| City / town engineer | Subdivision records, utility maps | High for utilities |
| Title insurance company | Title commitments, schedule B exceptions | High — legal review |
| Surveyor of record / firm archives | Prior surveys not recorded with county | Variable — depends on author |
| Adjoining owners (parol) | Recollections of corners, fences, agreements | Variable; supportive evidence |
| Historical aerials / Google Earth | Past site conditions, prior buildings | Useful for change detection |
| Federal sources (BLM, USGS, NOAA, FEMA) | PLSS records, topo maps, control, flood maps | High — public domain |
Test yourself
How well did it stick?
A quick 5-question check on Public and Private Record Sources. See where you stand and what to review.