Frequently Asked questions

​What is an RPR and why do I need one?
  • Commonly referred to as a Surveyor’s Certificate, A REAL PROPERTY REPORT is a legal document that illustrates the locations of above-ground structures or easements that are registered (or pending) against the title.  An RPR consists of a sketch plan and written report that identifies title information and potential encroachments from or by adjacent properties.  It can be relied upon by owners, realtors, lawyers, mortgage lenders and municipalities as an accurate representation of the property and its improvements.  REQUEST A QUOTE
​What is the difference between an RPR and title insurance?
  • An RPR shows the locations and setback distances of all permanent structures relative to the property boundaries and identifies the locations and extent of any encroachments.
  • Title Insurance is a policy issued to the mortgage lender, paid for by the property owner, that protects the lender, in the event that a defect in title is discovered at a later date. Defects in title could be the discovery of encroachments or non-compliance to a zoning bylaw.  These conditions could render the property non-marketable and as such the Title Insurance company would then be required to rectify the issue for the lender.  Title Insurance does not protect the owner.
​I want to subdivide my lot, how do I get started?
  • There are many factors to be considered before beginning the subdivision process.  Proposed land use, municipal zoning bylaws, subdivision regulations, government agency requirements, municipal reserve dedication and servicing costs are just a few of the items to be considered.  Our staff of Registered Land Surveyors and support staff are well versed in all types of subdivisions. From designing the proposal to administering the subdivision application, we can assist you with meeting your goals.  REQUEST A QUOTE
​How long does a subdivision take?
  • The time required to receive an approval for a subdivision application can vary greatly depending on the municipality and the planning authority which issues the decision.  A simple farm yard parcel or a residential lot in the City of Saskatoon can take 4 to 6 months to receive subdivision approval; however, a multi-parcel land development may take up to a year (or longer) before all the regulatory requirements are met.
​I'm building a new house, how much does it cost to get it surveyed? 
  • The cost to stake a new basement is dependent upon the neighborhood and whether you are a certified contractor. Defining property boundaries, before the basement location can be established, is generally the greatest factor that sets our rate. Staking basements in a new subdivision is based on a pre-set rate whereas basements for new homes in older, more established in-fill neighborhoods, can take much longer due to the lack of survey monuments that exist.  The cost to stake an in-fill basement may vary between neighborhoods and will be dependent on our research and what survey evidence we have on file in our records.
  • Before we can start the basement staking process, we will require a full set of your house plans, including a site plan that shows the position of the new home on the lot, the civic address and legal description.  Our pre-staking research includes a land title and plan search, a zoning bylaw verification and the drafting of a staking plot plan.  We will confirm the number of external entry and internal steps, depth of foundation wall, footings and floor joists to ensure that the excavation calculation is established correctly from the proposed finished grade.  REQUEST A QUOTE
​I want to build a detached garage/shed/other building.  Do I need to get it surveyed? 
  • We recommend all structures with a concrete foundation be surveyed. Establishing the property corners in advance of construction will ensure that your new building is set correctly and in compliance with the zoning bylaw.  It’s also important to have a Registered Land Surveyor search your title before construction to verify that the new building will be clear of any registered easements.  REQUEST A QUOTE
WHAT IS A BOMA CERTIFIED MEASUREMENT AND WHAT DOES IT COST?
  • “BOMA” stands for the Building Owners and Managers Association and is nationally recognized as setting the standard for measuring and certifying lease areas in commercial, retail, industrial and, to a lesser degree, residential buildings.  Owners and property managers of commercial buildings in Saskatoon and region have come to recognize Webb Surveys as experts in preparing BOMA Certifications.  The cost to complete a BOMA Certificate can vary depending on the type of building, number of floors, the occupancy of areas to be measured, etc.  REQUEST A QUOTE