Due Diligence Report - Maps & Plans

The following list of map or plans are invaluable in the site analysis work required in land acquisition.


Aerial Photo – a recent aerial photograph provides information not readily understood via plans, maps or site visits. The aerial will provide property use relationships and the overall development approach of the immediate surrounding area. Vacant parcels are also easily identified. If the location selected is Priority A, the cost of an aerial photo will vary but a recent aerial in Charlotte with labels was less than $500. Most on-line aerial photo’s lag development but with the downturn, the aerial photo’s may catch up with the development activity. If the site is infill, online aerial photo’s should be sufficient. This element of the due diligence package is essential to the overall analysis of a site.

Soils Map – the Soil Conservation District maps delineate the soil characteristics for every county. These maps provide an overview of the type of soils found in a location. The maps are dated by use of old aerial photo’s with soil types delineated. The key is to locate the PIQ on the aerial, sometimes not an easy task. Use a detailed road map to assist in this effort. After locating the property on the soils map, record the soil type on the property and use the Soil Conservation District soil descriptions and classifications to assess the positive and negative aspects for development operations. As an example, the report may indicate a high water table for a specific soil type. This would impact development costs; may alter the building foundation design; be classified as a wetland soil type; or the site may have rock 10” below the surface. Study the map and the soil types. This document is an overview and should be followed-up with a strategic soil investigation program onsite by using test pits and soil borings. The onsite investigation will further define the soil types and assist in delineating the extent of the soil types found on site.