Land Surveying Services
Layout / Envelope
A layout marks the locations for building an improvement, usually a house, on the ground. Where a lot stake marks the lot itself, a layout marks what will be built on it.
What this service involves
Overview
Depending on the builder's preference, we set the corners of the building or lay out its envelope. The envelope is the outermost dimensions of where the building will be placed: a box that the entire building or improvement will sit inside.
Points are usually marked with 60D nails. Where construction is expected to knock the nails out, we can also set offset markers a measured distance away, so the points can be found again.
The process is the same for any improvement, such as an addition or accessory building, though most layouts are for a new home. Where the lot's own corners need checking or marking, that is a lot stake.
Common uses
- New home construction
- Additions and accessory buildings
- Other improvements built to a plan
Who this service is for
- Builders
- General Contractors
- Property Owners
What you receive
- Building corners or the envelope marked on the ground, as the builder prefers
- Points usually marked with 60D nails
- Offset markers set where construction is likely to disturb the points
How the process works
Step 1 — Contact Us
You contact us with the property address and the plot plan or site plan for the improvement, and your preference of either an envelope, offset envelope, or building corners (usually an envelope). If the address has not been confirmed yet, include the lot, block, and subdivision.
Step 2 — Review and Confirm
We review the plan against the lot's boundary and confirm scope, pricing, and timeline with you.
Step 3 — Fieldwork Scheduled
Our in-house field crew sets the envelope or building corners, with offset markers where needed. Most surveys are completed in four to five business days; homebuilder work is typically one to two business days.
Step 4
Once the forms are set, a separate form survey confirms they sit clear of easements and building lines before the slab is poured.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a layout and a lot stake?
A layout marks where an improvement, such as a home, will be built. A lot stake marks the lot itself: its corners and, if needed, its boundary lines.
Should I ask for the building corners or the envelope?
It is the builder's preference. Building corners mark each corner of the structure. The envelope marks the outermost box the whole building or improvement will sit inside.
What if construction knocks the nails out?
Where that is likely, we can also set offset markers. They sit a measured distance from each point, so the layout can be found again after the nails are disturbed.
Related services
Form Survey
A survey to confirm the location of the form boards for a concrete foundation before the slab is poured.
Lot Stake (Pins)
Accurate, visible marking of a lot's property corners, and boundary lines if needed, on the ground. Missing corners reset when needed.
Plot Plan (Site Plan)
A drawing of proposed improvements, such as a residence or accessory building, on a property, typically for permitting.