When planning a custom concrete pool in Raleigh, one of the first questions we often hear is whether a survey is really necessary.
The truth is that a survey is one of the most important tools in the entire design and permitting process. It gives us the map we need to place your pool in exactly the right spot while making sure every requirement is met.
Why a Survey Matters
Most of the time, a survey is required for permitting. Even if it is not, it still gives us a complete picture of your property before we begin. With a survey in hand, we can see:
- The outline of your home
- Property lines, setbacks, and easements
- Permanent structures such as driveways, patios, or decks
- Utilities that need to be worked around
- Your impervious surface allowance
Each of these details helps us design a pool that not only looks beautiful but also fits perfectly within your property boundaries. You can see examples of how we design with precision in our pool gallery.
Understanding Impervious Surface Area
One of the most essential details on a survey is impervious surface area, often abbreviated as ISA. Impervious surfaces include anything that does not allow water to pass through, such as a concrete driveway, the roof of your home, paver patios, or the coping around a pool.
Every property has a maximum impervious surface allowance (MISA), and this number directly affects the size of your pool deck and equipment pad. If you have 500 square feet of impervious area left according to your survey, that is the space we can use for pool decking, coping, and the equipment pad. This is why it is so important to have exact numbers from a survey before we begin.
For a deeper dive, read our blog on impervious surface area explained.
What About Septic Systems
If your home has a septic system, we also need a septic plan. This is separate from the survey but just as essential.
A full soil scientist report is not always required, but we do need accurate placement details to ensure that the pool and equipment are installed correctly.
Regular Surveys vs Topographical Surveys
here are two types of surveys that we commonly see. A regular survey outlines property boundaries, setbacks, structures, and impervious surfaces. A topographical survey does all of that and also shows elevation changes.
If your property is sloped, a topographical survey makes the design process much easier. It helps us calculate whether retaining walls will be needed and where the pool should sit for the best result. While we can take our own elevation readings, a stamped topographical survey provides the most accurate record and reduces the chance of surprises during construction.
If you would like a quick overview, I talk through the details in this short video: Watch our pool survey video on YouTube.
New Construction Lots
In Wake County and surrounding areas, many new subdivisions are now including designated pool areas on their surveys. This is great news for homeowners because it means the lot has already been planned with a pool in mind. It makes the process smoother for everyone involved.
The Best Time to Get a Survey
The easiest time to get a survey is when you purchase a home, whether it is brand new or simply new to you. Always request an electronic copy so you can easily share it with your pool builder. We can then import it into our design system and create a pool layout that is tailored to your property.
The Bottom Line
While it is technically possible to move forward without a survey, it creates uncertainty that often leads to delays or complications. A survey provides the clarity we need to design and build a pool that is beautiful, compliant, and long lasting.
While it is technically possible to move forward without a survey, it creates uncertainty that often leads to delays or complications. A survey provides the clarity we need to design and build a luxury pool that is beautiful, compliant, and built to last.
At Azalea Pools and Outdoor Living, we specialize in custom concrete pools crafted to fit your home and lifestyle.