Sep 26, 2016
Why Your Final Grading Certificate Must Be Done by a Land Surveyor
If you are are developing or re-landscaping your property, or if you have recently purchased a new detached or semi-detached home, you may need a final grading certificate.
New regulations mean that all lot grading certificates must be carried out by professional land surveyors. As of August 2016 the new rules only apply in the City of Edmonton, but we expect them to come into effect more widely by the end of the year.
Read on to find out how these changes will affect homeowners.
New Lot Grading Certificate Regulations
As of August 15, 2016, the City of Edmonton will only accept Lot Grading Certificates from members of the Alberta Land Surveyors’ Association (ALSA).
Previously, certificates created by members of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) were also accepted.
So why the change?
According to building regulations, “A lot grading certificate must show information such as structures, or common swales on a parcel of land relative to a property line or boundary.”
– Rhonda Toohey, Acting Chief Planner, City of Edmonton
A professional Surveyor is able to relate topographical and drainage information to property lines and boundaries.
What Is Lot Grading?
Lot grading is an important part of renovations, landscaping, and new home construction. It protects against flooding and property damage by providing good drainage away from homes and nearby buildings.
It is the responsibility of homeowners to maintain the grading of their property, and many municipalities (including the City of Edmonton) require lot grading certificates to prove grading has been properly carried out and maintained.
A Land Surveyor Will Provide a Final Grading Certificate
Lot grading certificates are legal documents prepared by Alberta Land Surveyors. Here is the complete list of lot grading certificate requirements, and see an example of an LN lot grading certificate here.
Rough grading certificates (obtained by the home builder) prove that new homes have been built in compliance with municipal bylaws and that there is no risk of drainage issues.
Final grading certificates are the responsibility of the homeowner. They are usually obtained a year after the rough certificate has been provided, and prove that landscaping and/or renovations have not interfered with the original lot grading. For more information, check out the City of Edmonton’s guide to lot grading at the final stage.
Final grading certificates must always be provided by a professional land surveyor. Inspections are carried out under the guidance of the Alberta Land Surveyors’ Association and use strict procedures and protocols that match municipal requirements.
Need A Lot Grading Certificate?
LN has helped hundreds of Albertan homeowners with residential surveys, final lot grade certificates, and lot grade design and management.
Whether you are thinking of building your own custom home or starting a home rebuilding process, we can help. Get in touch by email, or call us on 780.488.9064 to get started.