THE 10 BEST Surveying Services in PORTLAND, OR
| Business Name | Key Services | Best For | Address | Hours | PS Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1LS Surveying | Boundary Surveys, Property Line Determination, Land Divisions | Boundary Dispute Resolution | Hillsboro, OR 97123 | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 4.5/5 |
| Miller Land Surveying | Boundary Surveys, Topographic Surveys, Property Analysis | Personalized Professional Service | Portland Metro Area, OR | By Appointment | 4.7/5 |
| Weddle Surveying | Elevation Certificates, Boundary Surveys, Topographic Surveys | Residential Property Surveys | 6950 SW Hampton St, Suite 170, Tigard, OR 97223 | Mon-Fri: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM | 4.3/5 |
| Chase Jones & Associates | Court Exhibits, ALTA Surveys, Boundary Surveys | Commercial Property Surveying | 716 SE 11th Ave, Ste 2, Portland, OR 97214 | Mon-Fri: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 4.4/5 |
| Ferguson Land Surveying | Boundary Surveys, Legal Descriptions, Property Research | Quick Response Service | 646 SE 106th Ave, Portland, OR 97216 | By Appointment | 4.6/5 |
| Statewide Land Surveying | Hydrographic Surveys, Land Surveys, Drone Surveys | Complex Terrain Projects | 43 NW Ava Ave, Gresham, OR 97030 | Mon-Tue, Fri-Sun: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM | 4.8/5 |
| Township Surveys | Boundary Surveys, ALTA Surveys, Land Partitions | Property Subdivision Projects | 401 6th St, Oregon City, OR 97045 | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 4.5/5 |
| Compass Land Surveyors | Public Works Surveys, Development Surveys, Planning | Municipal Development Projects | 4107 SE International Way, Ste 705, Milwaukie, OR 97222 | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 4.6/5 |
| W B Wells & Associates | Civil Engineering, Boundary Surveys, Planning Services | Historic Property Surveying | 4230 NE Fremont St, Portland, OR 97213 | Mon-Thu: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Fri: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM | 4.4/5 |
| AKS Engineering & Forestry | Civil Engineering, Natural Resources, Land Surveying | Multi-Disciplinary Projects | Tualatin, OR (Multiple Locations) | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 4.2/5 |
#1. 1LS Surveying – Best for Boundary Dispute Resolution
Key Highlights:
- Veteran owned and operated small business focused on ethical practices
- Specializes in boundary disputes and property line determinations for homeowners
- Uses state of the art equipment including robotic total stations and GNSS receivers
1LS Surveying stands out as a reliable choice for Portland area homeowners facing property line questions. This veteran owned company brings more than three years of dedicated service to the Portland metro area. They understand the unique challenges that come with local regulations and terrain.
Their team takes pride in clear communication and transparent pricing. When you call them, you get straight answers about what your project needs. They focus mainly on residential properties. This means they know exactly what homeowners face when dealing with fence lines, additions, or neighbor disputes.
The company uses modern technology to get precise measurements. Their equipment can measure down to sub centimeter accuracy. This precision helps prevent future problems and gives you peace of mind. Many clients appreciate how they explain the survey process in simple terms. You do not need to be an expert to understand what they find on your property.
#2. Miller Land Surveying – Best for Personalized Professional Service
Key Highlights:
- Owner Andrew Miller personally provides all surveying services
- Licensed professional land surveyor handles every aspect of your project
- Decades of expertise in the Willamette Valley and Portland area
Miller Land Surveying offers something rare in today’s world. You get a licensed professional surveyor on every job. Andrew Miller runs this company and he shows up himself. This personal touch means your project gets expert attention from start to finish.
Andrew has built a strong reputation among other surveyors in Oregon. His peers recognize him as one of the top professionals in the field. He has that special ability to understand both complex boundary solutions and simple customer needs. This makes working with him easy and stress free.
The company serves the entire Portland metro area and Willamette Valley. They handle residential and commercial projects with the same high standards. Whether you need a basic boundary survey or something more complex, Andrew brings the right skills. His timely service means your project moves forward without delays. Many clients return to him because they trust his work and appreciate his straightforward approach.
#3. Weddle Surveying – Best for Residential Property Surveys
Key Highlights:
- Operating in Portland area since 1972 with extensive local knowledge
- Quick response times with estimates provided within one day
- Professional two person survey teams for efficient field work
Weddle Surveying has been serving Portland area homeowners for over five decades. This long history means they know the local area better than most. They have seen how Portland neighborhoods have grown and changed over the years.
Their office in Tigard makes them easy to reach for anyone in the metro area. When you call, they respond quickly. Most clients get an estimate the very next day. The prices are fair and clearly explained so you know exactly what to expect.
The company uses experienced two person teams for fieldwork. These teams arrive on time and work steadily throughout the day. They handle everything from elevation certificates to boundary pin location. Clients praise their personable approach and professional demeanor. The surveyors take time to answer questions and explain what they are doing. This helps homeowners feel involved and informed about their own property.
#4. Chase Jones & Associates – Best for Commercial Property Surveying
Key Highlights:
- Heritage company serving Portland since 1885 with deep roots
- Full range of services including court exhibits and hydrographic work
- Experienced with both boundary disputes and large scale commercial projects
Chase Jones & Associates brings over a century of surveying experience to Portland. This company has roots going back to 1885. That kind of history shows a commitment to excellence that spans generations.
Their office on SE 11th Avenue serves as a hub for all kinds of surveying work. They handle everything from simple lot surveys to complex ALTA surveys for commercial properties. The team knows how to work with attorneys, title companies, and developers. This makes them a solid choice for business related surveying needs.
The company offers free initial consultations. This lets you discuss your project before committing to anything. Their surveyors are courteous and professional. They take time to explain the survey process and why certain methods work better than others. Many real estate professionals in Portland recommend them because they deliver reliable results on time. Their pricing stays competitive while maintaining high quality standards.
#5. Ferguson Land Surveying – Best for Quick Response Service
Key Highlights:
- Extremely helpful staff that provides clear project overviews
- Quick response times with estimates often provided within hours
- Honest recommendations that put client needs first
Ferguson Land Surveying has earned a reputation for being incredibly responsive. When you call them, someone knowledgeable picks up the phone. They take time to explain what your project needs and answer all your questions clearly.
Their office on SE 106th Avenue operates with a client first mentality. Gene and the team provide detailed information about the surveying process. They explain exactly what steps they need to take for your specific situation. Within an hour of calling, many clients receive a detailed estimate.
What really sets them apart is their honesty. They have been known to recommend other surveyors if those companies can do the job cheaper. This kind of integrity builds trust. They would rather help you find the right solution than just make a sale. Many clients call them back for future projects because of this thoughtful approach. Their professionalism and quick turnaround make them a top choice for Portland area property owners.
#6. Statewide Land Surveying – Best for Complex Terrain Projects
Key Highlights:
- Provides both land and hydrographic surveys across the Pacific Northwest
- Uses advanced UAV drone technology for aerial mapping and 3D imagery
- Over 38 years of experience with specialized equipment and techniques
Statewide Land Surveying handles projects that other companies might find too challenging. Their Gresham office serves as headquarters for some of the most advanced surveying work in Oregon. They work both on land and in water.
The company uses cutting edge technology including survey grade drones. These UAVs capture high resolution 3D images of large properties. This technology saves time and provides incredibly detailed information. They also use single beam sonar for hydrographic surveys. This makes them perfect for waterfront properties or projects involving rivers and lakes.
Their field staff has over 15 years of experience navigating Northwest waters. They own specialized survey vessels that can work in shallow waters, lakes, bays, and rivers. On land, they handle everything from simple property lines to complex topographic surveys. The quality control system ensures office drawings match exactly what the field team measures. This attention to detail has earned them five star ratings from homeowners, contractors, and engineers throughout Oregon and Washington.
#7. Township Surveys – Best for Property Subdivision Projects
Key Highlights:
- Serving Oregon City and Portland metro area since 1972
- Expertise in land partitions, subdivisions, and boundary line agreements
- Local knowledge of historical survey data and county regulations
Township Surveys brings decades of specialized experience to land division projects. Based in Oregon City, this company has deep roots in Clackamas County. They understand the local regulations that govern how you can divide property.
The surveyors here excel at handling complex subdivision work. They guide clients through city and county land division requirements. This planning coordination service saves time and prevents costly mistakes. Their work includes everything from simple boundary surveys to full subdivision plats.
The company uses modern equipment including reflectorless total stations and GPS systems. But they also have something technology cannot replace. They possess extensive knowledge of historical surveys and property records. This helps them resolve boundary questions that go back many decades. Their staff can even provide expert witness testimony in boundary dispute cases. Property owners trust them because they deliver accurate surveys on time and at fair prices. Their combination of experience and modern methods makes them a top choice for anyone dividing land in the Portland area.
#8. Compass Land Surveyors – Best for Municipal Development Projects
Key Highlights:
- Serving Portland region since 1968 with senior level expertise
- Specializes in public works and private development engineering
- Local employee owned firm with personal investment in project success
Compass Land Surveyors has been a trusted name in the Portland area for over 55 years. Their Milwaukie office serves municipalities, developers, contractors, and private property owners. The senior level staff brings over 35 years of experience to every project.
This company focuses solely on surveying services. In 2013, they consolidated their business to specialize in what they do best. The team has broad expertise in all phases of surveying and mapping. Industry leaders often call on them to solve complex problems.
As an employee owned firm, every team member has a personal stake in success. This drives them to embrace challenges as opportunities. They work on everything from small residential lots to major public infrastructure projects. Their timely and cost effective solutions have made them a go to choice for government agencies and private developers alike. The company measures its success by client satisfaction. This philosophy has kept them thriving in the competitive Portland market for decades.
#9. W B Wells & Associates – Best for Historic Property Surveying
Key Highlights:
- Serving Oregon since 1924 with nearly a century of experience
- Full service firm offering surveying, engineering, and planning
- Part of Emerio Design with over 70 employees across four offices
W B Wells & Associates carries the distinction of being one of Oregon’s oldest surveying firms. Since 1924, this company has been helping property owners throughout Portland and beyond. That kind of longevity speaks to consistent quality and reliability.
The company now operates as part of Emerio Design but keeps its well respected name. They maintain offices in Beaverton and Portland with access to a large team. This means they can handle projects of any size. From single family lot surveys to multi acreage commercial properties, they have the resources.
Their surveying staff brings experience with all aspects of the profession. They handle everything from basic boundary surveys to complex topographic work for development projects. The team has built an enviable reputation for efficiency and cost effectiveness. Many clients have worked with them for over a decade. They appreciate the prompt, professional, and courteous service. The reasonable costs make quality surveying accessible. Their long history gives them deep knowledge of property records throughout the region.
#10. AKS Engineering & Forestry – Best for Multi-Disciplinary Projects
Key Highlights:
- Comprehensive engineering firm with surveying as core service
- Offers civil engineering, natural resources, forestry, and landscape architecture
- Multiple office locations across Oregon and Southwest Washington
AKS Engineering & Forestry provides an integrated approach to land development. While they excel at surveying, they offer much more. This Tualatin based company combines multiple disciplines under one roof. This makes them ideal for complex projects that need various professional services.
Their surveying department uses advanced technology including 3D laser scanning. They handle everything from basic land surveys to specialized hydrographic work. The company also provides GIS mapping, construction surveys, and flood elevation studies. This range of services means you can coordinate all aspects of a project with one team.
The firm has recently merged with Lancaster Mobley, expanding their capabilities even further. They now have offices throughout Oregon and Washington. The team works on public infrastructure, private developments, and commercial sites. They value talent and initiative, which shows in their professional results. While they may be larger than some surveying companies, they maintain a focus on client relationships. Their internship program and community involvement demonstrate their commitment to the industry and region.
How Much Does a Land Survey Cost in Portland?
Land survey costs in Portland typically range from $500 to $2,000 for most residential properties. The final price depends on several important factors. These include the size of your property, the type of survey you need, and how complex the terrain is.
A basic boundary survey for a standard city lot usually costs between $800 and $1,500. This identifies your property lines and marks the corners. If you need a more detailed topographic survey that shows elevation changes and natural features, expect to pay $1,200 to $2,500. ALTA surveys, which are the most comprehensive type, can cost $2,000 to $4,000 or more.
The condition of your property affects the price too. Flat, clear land costs less to survey than steep, wooded, or overgrown properties. If old survey records exist and are accurate, your surveyor can work faster and charge less. Properties that have not been surveyed in many years may need extra research time. This increases the cost. Most Portland surveyors provide free estimates after learning about your specific situation. It is always smart to get quotes from at least three different companies before making your decision.
How Long Does a Land Survey Take to Complete?
Most residential land surveys in Portland take between one to three weeks from start to finish. The timeline includes research time, fieldwork, and preparing the final documents. Simple boundary surveys on well documented properties can sometimes be completed in just a few days.
The research phase happens first. Your surveyor reviews property deeds, previous surveys, and county records. This can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. If records are incomplete or conflicting, research takes longer. Once research is done, the field crew visits your property. The actual fieldwork usually takes just one or two days for a typical residential lot.
After the field measurements, your surveyor prepares the final map and report. This office work takes another few days to a week. Rush services are sometimes available if you have a deadline. Keep in mind that weather can affect timelines. Heavy rain, snow, or extreme heat may delay fieldwork. Very overgrown properties might need clearing before the survey can begin. Complex surveys like subdivisions or large commercial properties can take several weeks or even months. Your surveyor will give you a realistic timeline when you discuss your project.
Do I Really Need a Professional Land Survey?
Yes, hiring a professional land surveyor is essential for many property situations. In Oregon, only licensed Professional Land Surveyors can legally perform surveys. These professionals have specialized training, education, and state licensing. Their work is legally recognized and can be used in court if needed.
You definitely need a professional survey when buying or selling property. Most mortgage companies require one before approving a loan. The survey protects both buyer and seller by clearly showing what is included in the sale. You also need a survey before building anything near your property lines. This includes fences, sheds, garages, or home additions. Building on your neighbor’s property by mistake can lead to expensive legal problems.
Property line disputes with neighbors require professional surveys. A licensed surveyor provides impartial, legally valid documentation of boundaries. If you plan to divide your property or adjust property lines, professional surveys are mandatory. The county will not approve these changes without proper survey documents. While professional surveys cost money upfront, they save much more in the long run. They prevent legal disputes, protect your investment, and ensure compliance with local regulations. DIY measurements or estimates are never acceptable for legal or construction purposes.