Land Surveyors in Construction: Roles & Responsibilities

Land surveyors play a vital role in the construction industry by providing accurate measurements and mapping of land, which is essential for construction projects.

Their roles and responsibilities in the industry are varied and diverse, and they must work closely with other professionals, such as architects and engineers, to ensure the success of a construction project.

In this article, we will explore the roles and responsibilities of a land surveyor, the importance of accurate surveying in construction, qualifications required to become a land surveyor in Malaysia, and the challenges faced by land surveyors.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Land Surveyor

The roles and responsibilities of a land surveyor are varied and diverse, and they play an essential role in the construction industry. The following are the primary responsibilities of a land surveyor:

1. Conducting Surveys

One of the most critical roles of a land surveyor is to conduct surveys to determine the precise location and measurement of boundaries, features, and structures on the land.

This involves using specialized equipment and techniques to collect data and create accurate measurements and maps like using terrestrial laser scanning (TLS), underground utility mapping (UUM), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) mapping or other geospatial solutions.

2. Preparing Detailed Documents

Land surveyors are also responsible for preparing detailed maps, reports, and other documents that provide accurate information about the land.

This information is crucial for architects, engineers, and other construction professionals to design and plan construction projects.

3. Providing Advice and Guidance

Land surveyors provide advice and guidance to construction professionals, such as architects and engineers, on matters related to land surveying.

This may involve consulting on the feasibility of a project, recommending the most suitable surveying techniques, and providing advice on legal requirements related to land surveying.

4. Reviewing Construction Plans

Land surveyors also review construction plans and designs to ensure that they comply with legal requirements and are accurate.

This involves analyzing the plans and designs to identify potential issues, such as construction in prohibited areas, and recommending changes as necessary.

Ensuring Compliance

Land surveyors are responsible for ensuring that construction activities are carried out in accordance with the plans and designs.

They work closely with construction professionals to ensure that the construction project is progressing as planned and that all necessary surveying activities are being carried out.

In summary, the roles and responsibilities of a land surveyor are vital in ensuring that construction projects are safe, compliant with legal requirements, and accurately designed and executed.

Land surveyors must have a high level of technical expertise, be able to communicate effectively with other professionals, and be adaptable to changing conditions.

Importance of Accurate Surveying in Construction

Accurate surveying is crucial in construction for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to ensure that the construction project is safe and meets legal requirements.

Accurate surveying can identify any potential hazards or issues that could impact the safety of the construction workers or the surrounding area.

Secondly, accurate surveying is essential for the design and planning of the construction project. Accurate measurements and mapping of the land can help architects and engineers to design structures that fit into the surrounding environment and are aesthetically pleasing.

Thirdly, accurate surveying can help to prevent costly mistakes during the construction process. For example, inaccurate measurements can result in structures being built in the wrong location, which can result in costly delays and rework.

Qualifications of a Land Surveyor in Malaysia

To become a land surveyor in Malaysia, there are specific educational and professional requirements that need to be met.

Typically, a land surveyor will have a bachelor's degree in surveying or a related field from a recognized institution. In addition, the Board of Land Surveyors Malaysia requires that land surveyors be registered with them under the Licensed Land Surveyors Act 1958.

To be eligible for registration, candidates must pass the Board of Land Surveyors Malaysia's Professional Examination in Surveying and Geomatics or an equivalent examination from a recognized institution.

Once registered, land surveyors must continue to meet continuing education requirements to maintain their registration.



To become a registered land surveyor, one must:

• Graduate with education qualifications recognised by the Board. (Malaysia, Oversea)
• Fulfil Articles and Training under the supervision of a licensed land surveyor.
• Sign Pass the Examination (Application For Examination)
• Apply to the Secretary of the Board to be a registered land surveyor using Application As Registered Land Surveyor form along with: Statutory of Declaration & Fee of RM250.00
  
  

Applying for License

A registered surveyor who intends to provide survey services is required to have a licence granted by the Board. Application form & fee as follows:

• Application For Licence To Practice
• RM500.00

Source: http://www.ljt.org.my/content/overview-ljt


The examination is designed to test candidates' knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of land surveying in Malaysia.

Candidates who pass the examination and meet the other requirements for registration are eligible to become registered land surveyors in Malaysia.

In summary, becoming a registered land surveyor in Malaysia requires a bachelor's degree in surveying or a related field, passing the Board of Land Surveyors Malaysia's Professional Examination in Surveying and Geomatics, and meeting the continuing education requirements to maintain registration.

These requirements ensure that land surveyors in Malaysia have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide accurate and reliable surveying services for construction projects.

Challenges Faced by Land Surveyors

Land surveying can be a challenging profession. Some of the common challenges faced by land surveyors include adverse weather conditions, difficult terrain, and legal disputes related to property boundaries.

To overcome these challenges, land surveyors must have a high level of technical expertise and be able to adapt to changing conditions.

They must also be effective communicators and be able to work collaboratively with other professionals involved in the construction project.

Conclusion

Land surveyors play a crucial role in the construction industry, providing the essential information that architects, engineers, and other construction professionals need to create safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing structures.

Accurate surveying is crucial for ensuring the safety of construction workers and the surrounding