The hook
Boundary surveying is the signature work of the licensed surveyor. The PS exam covers physical evidence, boundary reconciliation, historical measurement accuracy, and the legal principles that govern resolution. This is the meatiest section of the exam.
- 1Records research (FS 3.A)Subject deed, recorded plats, adjoiners, prior surveys. Build the chain of title.
- 2Field investigationFind original monuments. Note their condition, type, witness evidence. Photograph.
- 3Apply hierarchy of calls (PS 1.A)Senior rights, intent, natural monuments, artificial monuments, adjoiners, courses, distances, area.
- 4Reconcile measurement vs. recordModern measurement is more precise than 1880 measurement. Original monuments outrank measurement disagreements.
- 5Make the boundary determinationDocument the reasoning. Put dissenting opinions on the survey as notes.
- 6Set monuments + platPer state monumentation standard. Plat shows controlling evidence.
Memorize these
Concepts that show up on the exam
Boundary determination
The professional decision about where the boundary lies. Documented; defensible; signed.
Pincushion
When successive surveyors set their own monuments at one corner, accumulating the disagreement. Should be resolved by determining the controlling monument.
Original measurement accuracy
1880 chain measurements were 1:500 to 1:5,000 — much less precise than modern. Don't hold the record bearings/distances over original monuments.
Controlling monument
The single monument that controls a corner when conflicts exist. Determined by senior rights + evidence hierarchy + professional judgment.
Test yourself
How well did it stick?
A quick 5-question check on Boundary Surveys. See where you stand and what to review.