Land surveying is mainly focusing on establishment of property boundaries through systematic study, inspection, gathering information through field observations and measurements and study of legal instruments related to property. Similarly, it involves the re-establishment of cadastral surveys and land boundaries based on documented records and historical evidence. Land Surveying also include certifying surveys of subdivision plats/maps, registered land surveys, judicial surveys, and space delineation. Land surveying can also be associated with services such as mapping and related data accumulation, construction layout surveys, precision measurements of length, angle, elevation, area, and volume, as well as horizontal and vertical control surveys, and the analysis and utilization of land survey data.

It is essential to note that Land Surveying has been an important function in improvement of the the human environment. It has been an integral part of planning and implementation of any type of construction. Its latest usage has spanned into the field of transportation, buildings, telecommunications, mapping and establishment of legal boundaries of land ownership. Until recently the basic tools used for land surveying were, tape measuring the short distances, a Level for determining the elevation differences, and theodolite for to measure the angles horizontally and vertically along with triangulation. Today, more sophisticated instrument such as total station is widely used. The total station is a theodolite with an electronic distant measurement device (EDM) which can be used for horizontal, vertical, angular measurements. Since the introduction of the total station, it has evolved from optical-mechanical device to fully computerized full electronic device. The top of the range total stations are no longer dependent on reflector or prism and are fully automatic or robotic, can even e-mail field data to the office computer via Global Position System.

As one of the oldest professions in the World, a surveyor is a valued and respected career and takes on many roles. There are a multitude of areas where a surveyor can specialise, but all are in the fields of land and the environment with property being a large element of the work. So when it comes to buying land or a property for commercial reasons, which type of surveyor is needed? A Chartered Surveyor covers these requirements, and they specialise in the property and land aspects of commercial buying. Their job is to survey and then advise on the value and complete specification of the proposed purchase.

The best way to find a Chartered Surveyor is through the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) or through a respected directory. A thorough directory will list all available survey companies in a local region, and give brief details of the company history and what they offer. The reason why they are perfect for businesses looking to invest in a building, is because they cover every aspect required when it comes to funding a purchase through a bank loan or pension fund. A Chartered Survey will show any problems or defects with structural deficits, and also analyse the land on which the building stands for any problems like flood plains or radon gases.

Another part of their practice, especially in the 21st Century, is to advise on environmental issues. With sustainability at the forefront of green business and local government incentives, buying new offices which are in-efficient and outdated is something to beware of. Surveyors enrolled with the RICS are qualified to give reports on these issues.