What additional responsibility does a professional land surveyor have regarding documents during a survey?

A professional land surveyor has the critical responsibility of utilizing both recorded and unrecorded documents to resolve discrepancies that may arise during the course of a survey. This is essential for accurately determining property boundaries and providing reliable information in a survey report.

Recorded documents, such as property deeds and plats, are publicly available and serve as a foundation for establishing property rights and locations. However, unrecorded documents—such as historical records, easements, or agreements that may not have been formally filed—can contain vital context or information essential for resolving boundary conflicts or understanding prior land use. By considering both types of documents, the surveyor can provide a more comprehensive and accurate representation of the property's legal status.

The other options do not encompass the full scope of a surveyor's responsibilities in document management and analysis. Focusing solely on recorded documents would disregard potentially important information that could significantly impact the survey's findings. Similarly, verifying the financial history of properties or limiting document acquisition to government sources does not directly contribute to resolving discrepancies in boundary determination or land use issues. Thus, utilizing both recorded and unrecorded documents ensures a thorough and effective survey.