1. Cadastral Surveying and Land Parcel Definition
Cadastral Surveying and Land Parcel Definition
This domain tests how a licensed surveyor defines a land parcel from field evidence, deed information and statutory plans. The exam expects you to explain boundary evidence hierarchy, parcel identifiers, and the difference between a cadastral plan and a title diagram.
Core rules and concepts
- A parcel is a two-dimensional area with legally recognised boundaries; it is not merely the area stated in a deed.
- Boundary evidence hierarchy: natural boundaries such as rivers and roads, original monument marks, occupation lines, then measurements and areas. Measurements are subordinate to monuments.
- Cadastral work commonly proceeds through preliminary and final plans; lot numbers, corner marks and survey records must be consistent.
- Area is a derived quantity. A deed area is evidence, not a guarantee.
- Re-establishment requires searching for original marks and tying to control before setting new marks.
Worked example
A deed gives 12.0 m frontage, but the original concrete corner posts stand 11.7 m apart and occupation fences agree with the posts. The correct boundary follows the posts; the 0.3 m discrepancy is recorded, not 'corrected' by moving posts. Reason: original monuments best preserve the parties' intent.
Traps that cost marks
Treating deed area as conclusive; moving old marks to match measurements; confusing possession with title; failing to record the evidence and reasoning in field notes.