🔌 What Is a Utility Survey in Real Estate?

A utility survey identifies the location and depth of underground and above-ground utilities on a property. It helps homeowners, builders, engineers, and contractors avoid damaging buried lines and ensures construction projects comply with safety and permitting requirements.

How a Utility Survey Works

Surveyors use specialized equipment—such as ground penetrating radar (GPR), electromagnetic locators, and mapping tools—to detect, mark, and document the position of buried and surface utilities.

A utility survey typically identifies:

  • Water and sewer lines
  • Electrical conduits and power lines
  • Gas lines
  • Telecom lines (fiber, cable, phone)
  • Storm drains and culverts
  • Irrigation lines
  • Utility easements
  • Manholes, valves, and access points

The survey results are usually provided as a CAD or PDF utility map used for planning, excavation, and permitting.

Why Utility Surveys Matter

For Homeowners & Builders:

  • Prevents accidental damage to underground utilities
  • Identifies safe locations for digging or construction
  • Helps plan additions, pools, driveways, and landscaping
  • Ensures compliance with local permitting requirements
  • Reduces costly repairs, delays, and safety hazards

For Developers & Engineers:

  • Provides essential data for design and site planning
  • Ensures proper utility coordination for new infrastructure
  • Helps avoid conflicts between utilities and proposed improvements
  • Supports environmental, roadway, and drainage planning

Example of a Utility Survey in Action

A homeowner plans to install an in-ground pool. Before excavation begins, a utility survey reveals:

  • A buried electrical conduit crossing the backyard
  • A sewer line running near the proposed pool location
  • An irrigation line that must be rerouted

Using the survey, the contractor adjusts the design to avoid utility conflicts, preventing dangerous and costly mistakes.

Why Utility Surveys Matter for FSBO Sellers

Buyers often ask about the location of utilities when considering additions or remodels. A utility survey helps FSBO sellers:

  • Provide accurate information about utility locations
  • Reduce buyer concerns about future construction feasibility
  • Ensure improvements were built safely and correctly
  • Increase listing transparency and buyer confidence

Listings with reliable utility documentation often appear more trustworthy and attractive to buyers planning renovations.

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