Phase II: Base Mapping / Design Phase

This phase includes the engineering, design, approval, and production of working drawings for the development of the project; however, this work is performed by other professionals, not my office. I generally prepare the base mapping only. Therefore, we need to clearly define the scope and limits of the base mapping and where it will be sent upon completion, and the nature of that data.

Although I normally limit my services to base mapping, I often prepare recombination or subdivision plats. If you need me to handle this type of work, I require that I be informed of such desire in advance of any contract agreement, including Phase I. It is my recommendation that you have your attorney supervise and track design requirements, zoning issues, and approvals. The appropriate governing agency should be contacted early to address these issues. In the event a division, recombination, or new lot layout design is needed, all requirements for approval of such plat will be provided to the surveyor. Also, a preliminary plan, showing the preliminary design and layout shall be prepared. At such time the contents of such preliminary plan meet the approval of the client, local ordinances and state laws, copies of the same shall be provided to the surveyor for completion of a final plat, field layout, and recordation. This process may require multiple reviews for approval. If the information provided to the surveyor is in error, or does not meet approval, it will be the responsibility of the client to have the problem addressed. I will gladly help with design, however, it is important that you appoint one person as the coordinator, and establish the responsibilities of each professional before work begins.

Development and approval is usually the most difficult part of a project to complete. Much of the difficulty depends upon the municipality. Delays, incorrect information, confusion and missed planning department deadlines can easily delay your projects. Extra planning, although costly, should help advance the completion date of the project. In all cases, a clearly written record of correspondence with local government officials should be kept on issues affecting the property.