Coordinating with Third Parties

Overview

Surveyors frequently interact with other professionals, agencies, and stakeholders during projects. Effective coordination ensures project success and avoids conflicts.

Learning Objectives

• Coordinate with other design professionals
• Work effectively with government agencies
• Communicate with property owners and neighbors
• Manage stakeholder expectations

Key Concepts

Coordination with Design Professionals

Surveyors work closely with:

• Civil Engineers: Providing topographic and boundary data for design
• Architects: Furnishing site conditions and setback information
• Title Companies: Exchanging boundary and easement information
• Real Estate Professionals: Answering property questions

Government Agency Interaction

Common agency coordination includes:

• County Surveyor/Recorder for map filing
• Planning departments for subdivision review
• Building departments for setback verification
• Utility companies for location coordination

Property Owner Communication

Best practices for neighbor relations:

• Provide advance notice of survey activities
• Explain the purpose and process
• Document all communications
• Address concerns professionally
• Maintain neutrality in boundary disputes

Conflict Management

When conflicts arise:

• Remain objective and professional
• Document all facts carefully
• Avoid taking sides in disputes
• Recommend mediation when appropriate
• Provide factual expert opinions only

Key Terms

• Right of Entry: Legal permission to access property for surveying
• Stakeholder: Any party with interest in the survey outcome
• Coordination Meeting: Scheduled discussion among project participants

Practice Questions

1. How should a surveyor handle a situation where a neighbor objects to survey activities?
2. What information should be exchanged with a civil engineer at project kickoff?