Problems in Property Surveys and Right-of-Way Maps

The difficulties and variations encountered in the preparation of accurate plans and maps for right-of-way acquisition are ever increasing, causing delays in construction and flooding of the courts with claims for just compensation. Analysis of these inherent difficulties begins with record data required for surveys. A review of units of measurement, deeds, title documents, road boundary descriptions, existing monuments, subdivisions, private and public surveys, photo surveys, and easements brings out the most apparent errors and difficulties. Relief distortion and its effect on scale of aerial photographs is particularly important. Variations exist in standards of acquisition, right-of-way, layout, rule, and damage maps, prepared under the authority of the state, comity, city, town, and other agencies. Every possible avenue of information necessary for proper surveys must often be examined for land acquisition surveys. Right-of-way mapping procedures would be improved if one map could serve the title examiner, appraiser, land negotiator, the courts, and many others serving this whole complex of land acquisition.