Question 1

What is the difference between an ILC and an ISP?

Accepted Answer

ILC — Improvement Location Certificate

Think of an ILC as a snapshot, not a full investigation.

What it is

Shows approximate locations of visible improvements
(house, garage, fences, driveways)
Based on limited research
Not intended to establish exact boundary lines

What it’s used for

Lender requirement at closing
Title insurance purposes
Confirming that obvious improvements appear to sit within property lines

What it is NOT

Not a boundary survey
Not suitable for construction
Not legally defensible in disputes

In short:

“Good enough for closing. Not good enough for conflict.”

ISP — Improvement Survey Plat

The grown-up version.

What it is

A boundary survey with improvements precisely located
Full record research
Monuments located or set
Dimensions, setbacks, easements, and encroachments shown accurately

What it’s used for

Building or remodeling
Resolving boundary questions
Acreage or irregular parcels
High-value or high-risk properties

What it IS

Defensible
Accurate
Something a surveyor is willing to stand behind

An ILC shows where things appear to be.

An ISP shows where they actually are.

People often choose an ILC because it’s cheaper.

Then they try to build, add a fence, or resolve a dispute — and end up needing an ISP anyway.

That’s not saving money.

That’s paying twice.

When an ILC is Appropriate

Standard residential closing
No plans to build or modify
Low risk, low complexity

When an ISP is the Right Choice

Construction or additions
Acreage or unusual lots
Properties near boundaries
Any situation where accuracy matters

Question 2

Why does a professional land survey cost what it does?

Accepted Answer

Because surveying isn’t just measuring land. It’s researching decades of records, reconciling conflicting documents, locating or reestablishing monuments, and applying licensed professional judgment that carries legal responsibility.

You’re paying for certainty, not guesswork.

Question 3

Why can’t you give a flat price without seeing the property?

Accepted Answer

Because no two properties have the same history, complexity, or risk.

A simple-looking lot can hide missing corners, overlapping deeds, or undocumented easements.

We price projects based on the level of research and responsibility required, not just acreage or square footage.

Question 4

Why is your price higher than another surveyor’s quote?

Accepted Answer

Some surveys focus on speed and volume.

Ours focus on accuracy, clarity, and defensibility.

Lower prices often mean limited research, minimal conflict resolution, and deliverables that don’t hold up when questions arise later. When problems surface, they rarely call the cheapest surveyor. They call the one who can fix it.

Question 5

Do I really need a survey if there’s already a fence or old plat?

Accepted Answer

Fences move. Plats can be outdated.

Neither is legally binding on its own.

A current, professional survey confirms what actually exists today and how it aligns with the legal record. It’s the difference between “we think this is right” and “this is right.”

Question 6

Does title insurance cover survey issues?

Accepted Answer

Often, no.

Most title policies exclude matters that a survey would have revealed. A survey fills that gap and gives your title insurance something solid to stand on.

Question 7

Do you offer cheaper or limited-scope surveys?

Accepted Answer

We design our scopes to protect the project, not just check a box.

In some cases, a simplified option may be appropriate. We’re happy to discuss that, as long as it still delivers clear, defensible results we’re willing to put our name on.

Question 8

Why do you charge extra for expedited service?

Accepted Answer

Because speed requires rearranging schedules, extending work hours, and prioritizing one project over others.

Expedited service is a luxury.

Waiting is included.

Question 9

Is a survey really worth the money?

Accepted Answer

A survey costs a fraction of what it prevents.

Boundary disputes, redesigns, construction delays, and legal fees cost far more than doing it right the first time. A professional survey is one of the least expensive forms of risk management in real estate.

Question 10

How do I know which service package I need?

Accepted Answer

That’s what we’re here for.

We’ll ask a few questions about the property, the transaction, and your goals, then recommend the level of service that makes sense. No upselling. No guesswork.

ILC and ISP Services

Providing precise ILC and ISP surveys to support your needs across Colorado.

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Dear Realtors,

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Contact Precision Land Surveying for expert ILC surveying services in Avon and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions about Land Surveys

Find answers to common questions about our land surveying services.