When building work ends, one step is still left. As built surveys must be done before permits close out. They must also be done before the last loan payment. This survey shows what was built, where it sits, and if it matches the set plans.
What Is an As-Built Survey?
An as-built survey is done after all building work ends. A licensed land surveyor visits the site. They measure all buildings, pipes, and site features. The results go into a signed map. This map shows if the work matches the set plans and local rules.
This is not the same as a builder’s drawing. A builder’s drawing shows what was planned. An as-built survey shows what was really built. The numbers come from real work done in the field. That matters when you need a permit or loan sign-off.
What Does an As-Built Survey Include?
An as-built survey shows where all buildings, pipes, driveways, and drains are placed. It includes numbers, heights, and distances from lot lines. The signed map shows how the finished work compares to the set plans.
A licensed surveyor will measure and record these areas:
Buildings and Base Structures
- Where the building sits on the lot
- How far the building is from each lot line
- The height of the finished floor
- GPS points at the base corners
Pipes and Drains
- Where water, sewer, and gas lines are buried
- Spots where storm drains are placed
- Size and shape of water holding ponds
- Depth of buried pipes
Site Features
- Driveways and parking lots
- Walls and yard grades
- Any features near shared land areas
The final map will flag any gap between the set plans and what was built. Permit offices and lenders need this before they close out your project.
Research from the American Society of Civil Engineers shows this clearly. Bad records after building work cost the U.S. industry about $4.2 billion per year in repairs. An as-built survey helps prevent that.
Who Needs an As-Built Survey?
Builders, developers, homeowners, utility crews, and city offices all need as-built surveys. You may need one to get a final permit, close a building loan, or sell a home where recent work was done near a lot line.
Here are the main groups that need this type of survey:
Builders and General Contractors. Most permits in Marion County require an as-built survey. The city needs it before issuing a final permit. This applies to new homes, shops, and rental buildings.
Business Developers. Lenders often will not send the last loan payment without one. A signed as-built survey proves the project was finished as agreed.
Utility Crews. After burying pipes or cables, crews need records of exact spots and depths. A signed survey from a licensed expert is more reliable than a hand sketch.
Homeowners. You may need one if you build near your lot line. Lenders and title firms sometimes ask for updated records before you refinance or sell.
When Should You Order an As-Built Survey?
Order an as-built survey after all grading, paving, and pipe work is done. Ordering too early means the surveyor must come back. Ordering too late can delay your permit or loan. Book it as soon as the site is fully done.
Here is a simple timing guide:
| Project Stage | What to Do |
| Building work 90% done | Call a licensed surveyor to schedule |
| All pipes buried and covered | Confirm the site is ready |
| Final grading and paving done | Right time to order the survey |
| Survey signed and sent | Submit to permit office and lender |
| Final permit issued | File the survey with the county |
Many people order the survey too early. If the site is not done, the surveyor has to return. That costs more and slows the project down.
How Much Does an As-Built Survey Cost?
A home as-built survey usually costs between $800 and $3,500. Business projects often range from $2,500 to $8,000 or more. Price depends on lot size, how many pipes must be mapped, and how fast you need the results.
These are the main cost factors:
- How large the lot is
- How many pipes and drains must be measured
- Whether the city or lender needs digital map files
- How fast you need the survey done
How to Find a Licensed Land Surveyor
Your as-built survey must be signed by a licensed land surveyor. Only then will the county and lenders accept it.
When you look for land survey companies near you, check for:
- An active PLS license from the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency
- Real experience with post-building surveys
- Knowledge of local permit rules in Marion County
- A delivery date that fits your schedule
Indiana has about 1,100 licensed land surveyors on file with the state. Not all of them do as-built surveys. Ask about their specific experience before you book.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are builder drawings and an as-built survey the same thing?
No. Drawings from a builder show what was planned. A survey uses real numbers from the field. Permit offices and lenders only accept the signed survey.
Are as-built surveys required by law in Indiana?
There is no single state law that covers all jobs. But most cities near Indianapolis require them for business permits. Most building lenders also require them before the last loan payment.
What if the survey shows a problem?
If a building is too close to a lot line, you may need to apply for a rule change. It is better to find out now than during a future sale.
How long does it take?
Most home as-built surveys take 5 to 10 business days after the site visit. Large business jobs can take 2 to 4 weeks.
