Builder’s Info

A.H. Schwacke & Associates provides all of your construction surveying needs for residential and commercial projects. From site plans, rough stake, elevation survey, and more, we are a trusted partner from beginning to end. Following the latest regulations, we prepare your site accurately and with the greatest attention to detail. Working with governing bodies, from the Architectural Review Board to FEMA, we hit every mark needed to get your site approved and ready to go!

As a builder, you need a surveying team you can depend on. Over 30 years we have developed the experience and skill to prepare your construction site properly. Since we began A.H. Schwacke in 1991, we have built a reputation for accurate results and superior service. Your projects, no matter the scale, need to be done right the first time, every time. Trust your construction prep to Schwacke & Associates and build with confidence.

Mixing the latest technology and time-proven methods, we have a team that is agile and consistent. Bringing better results to you, we are leaders in the surveying industry. We also stay updated on the latest regulations. Working with the local regulating bodies, we can produce the plats and material you need to stay compliant and apply for certifications. Along with our field crew, our office team is efficient and reliable, meaning you won’t experience delays in processing.

Highlighted here are our most popular construction services. Contact us to see how we can meet the needs of your construction project. At A.H. Schwacke & Associates, you have a team you can count on. Your projects are too important to take a gamble. Set a solid foundation before construction begins and have a trusted partner until the end. Attention to detail – it’s why we have a reputation of being the best!

Site Plans

Prepare your site for construction with our site plan survey. With this boundary and topographic survey, you will have the required documents for improvements and additions to your parcel of land. Typically, you will need a survey with detailed information about the current site and proposed improvements before obtaining building permits. Site Plans may include property lines, easements, driveways, surrounding streets, parking lots, drainage facilities, water lines, utilities, and more.

At Schwacke & Associates, we will work with all the necessary contacts to complete a thorough survey for your construction project. We are well versed in the codes, regulations, and standards for construction in the Charleston area. After 30 years of experience, our team will produce a highly detailed and exact plan with every attribute included. From utilities, property lines, easements, driveways, surrounding streets, and more, our team will get it right the first time, saving you time, resources, and regret. Using the latest technology, we will prepare your site plans with greater accuracy than ever before in the surveying industry. Begin construction knowing you are compliant and within the correct boundaries for your project.

Why choose a surveyor? You will save time and resources with a surveying team preparing your site plans. We are agile and experienced, producing plans for you quickly. Make lot improvements and start new building construction with confidence knowing our team has completed the site plans with precision, accuracy, and consistency. As a builder, you have a great deal of resources vested in every project. And construction job needs to be right – the safety and longevity of the community depends on it. You wouldn’t build a house without a solid foundation. Why start your construction project without a solid plan? Choose Schwacke & Associates to develop your site plans with more accurate results and in faster time.

ARB Layout

Rough stake buildings, drives, walks, decks, and mechanical stands as required by the Architectural Review Board (ARB). Develop a site plan depicting existing and proposed layout of all driveways, walkways, parking areas, entrance and exit drives, loading areas, walls, gates, etc., needed to stay compliant with ARB requirements. Following the architectural blue prints, we use great accuracy to stake out in real-life the plans drawn for your project. The rough stake is useful to correct any issues before beginning construction, saving you time and money.

Remain in the good graces of the governing bodies for your construction project. Our team is knowledgeable of the current regulations and has experience working with zoning and property regulators. As you work to make improvements in the community, the ARB ensures strict regulations are being met. Preserve the Charleston community and its natural beauty by staying compliant with an ARB rough stake. For over 30 years, A.H. Schwacke & Associates has built a reputation of reliability and accuracy. Build with confidence with your Schwacke team by your side.

Using the latest in technology combined with time-proven methods, we have the skill and experience to prepare your rough stake correctly and quickly. We understand that when it comes to building projects, time is money. And, you need results that are completed correctly the first time, every time. With decades of experience working in the construction industry, we know the resources you have invested in your projects. This is why accuracy and efficiency are our goal. Why settle when it comes to prepping your construction site? Your Schwacke team will be there for you from beginning to project’s end, time and again.

Rough Stake

Using plans drawn for new construction or improvements for current structures, the rough stake process places markers throughout the construction area, outlining the various building aspects of the plan. With the highest level of accuracy, we follow the architectural blueprints to develop the mapping for construction in real-life. This process helps to point out any problems with the layout in the beginning as opposed to once construction starts.

The staking can be placed to represent both interior and exterior walls, along with driveways, walkways, drainage, etc. After the staking, construction can begin.

You’ve gone through the steps to develop plans for your project including blueprints, contracts, and materials sourcing. Before construction, you need an accurate rough stake. Go with a survey team you can trust. Schwacke & Associates has been providing site prep, staking, and surveying for over 30 years, developing a reputation of accuracy and consistency. You’ve invested a large amount of time and resources into this project. The stakes are too high to make the wrong decision. We understand the scale and investment of your projects and take the responsibility seriously. Choose the team that has been surveying the Charleston area since 1991. We are rooted in customer service and experience, and agile enough to change with the industry. Using state-of-the-art tools, we lead the way in precision and consistency. You can plan on Schwacke & Associates to provide you the highest quality land surveys available.

Benchmark Elevation

A fixed mark that establishes the exact elevation for a site. The mark will usually be a nail set in a tree or power pole at a known elevation on a specific datum. Required for most topographic surveys and construction sites, especially those in flood zones.

In construction, you need accurate benchmarks. Throughout every stage, from planning to completed construction, you need to be exact. Choose a team known for precision and accuracy. When the stakes are high, and you need to get it right the first time. If you want accuracy and efficiency with your survey, go with Schwacke & Associates. With over 80 years of combined experience, our team has the knowledge and skill to get the job done right. You wouldn’t build a house without a solid foundation. Why start your construction without a solid land survey? With our team, you can feel confident that you are receiving the best service and surveying around.

We approach every project with the big picture in mind combined with great attention to detail. We consider the impact of the project on the environment and community when performing surveys. Following the latest codes, regulations, and industry standards, we prepare plans and plats to meet the needs of the land’s governing bodies. We care about this city, just like you. This is why we go to such great lengths to provide accurate and detailed maps.

Choose the team that has been surveying the Charleston area since 1991. We are rooted in customer service and experience, and agile enough to change with the industry. Using state-of-the-art tools, we lead the way in precision and consistency. You can plan on Schwacke & Associates to provide you the highest quality land surveys available.

Construction Stakeout

Stake points horizontally and/or vertically for construction from plans or electronic drawings provided by engineers or architects. We stake for clearing, silt fence, tree protection, ponds, utilities, roads, pilings, and buildings. From the building plans, we bring the proposed improvements to the ground with great accuracy. With a construction stakeout, you have a more realistic depiction of the building plans, bringing to light possible issues.

The blueprints can only take your plans so far. A stakeout is necessary to begin construction and is the next step to completing your building project. Start your improvements with a solid foundation. A construction stakeout from A.H. Schwacke & Associates will allow you to build with confidence!

We are members of this community. We care about what happens here, just like you. That’s why we take great care to help preserve the natural environment while moving forward with innovation and construction. You want positive development for Charleston and surrounding counties. You want the best for the families who live here and for the future of our community. We do too. That’s why when you choose Schwacke for your surveying needs, you’re making the best choice for the future of our city.

Our founder, Buddy Schwacke has over 50 years of surveying experience, a passion he has passed to his son Kevin who has over 30 years of experience and leads the Schwacke team. Combined, our company has over 80 years of surveying experience. We bring this knowledge, skill, and passion to every project. You will receive not only the collective experience of our team, but also the quality service that we are known for. Using state-of-the-art tools, we can complete surveys with greater accuracy in less time than our competitors, saving you time and money. That’s the Schwacke difference.

Foundation Survey

This survey shows the position of the foundation with regards to the property boundary. Once the foundation has been poured, we can complete this survey to verify that it meets the rules for regulations and zoning. The survey can then be sent to permitting agencies to move forward with construction.

Working in construction, you know how important a solid foundation is. If the foundation is off, the entire project is set for failure. Start the groundwork for your project with a reputable survey company. Following the latest codes, regulations, and industry recommendations, we will develop a plat that meets all standards for your construction project. You can begin developing quicker and with greater results with a survey from our Schwacke team. Why? Because we value accuracy and results. We pride ourselves on quick turnaround while paying close attention to detail and doing it all at a great value. Since 1991, Schwacke has been a member of this community, providing surveys and construction plans that have helped build current-day Charleston. Choose the trusted option for your construction needs and save time, money, and headache down the road.

As members of the community, we care about what happens here. We know you do too. That’s why we use big-picture thinking combined with small-detail precision. We want positive development for Charleston and surrounding counties. We want the best for our families who live here and for the future of our community. That’s why when you choose Schwacke for your surveying needs, you’re making the best choice for the future of our city.

Pre-Construction Elevation Certificate

FEMA requires an Elevation Certificate for their National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). With this certificate, elevation information is provided for communities to ensure compliance with floodplain management ordinances. This is also used by property owners to determine insurance rates through the NFIP. In most cases, an Elevation Certificate is required for high-risk structures by an insurer before issuing flood insurance.

We know the importance of being prepared for natural disasters. South Carolina land owners are especially susceptible to the damaging impact of flooding. A FEMA Elevation Certificate not only determines a property’s risk of flooding, it provides peace of mind to the land owners. Be prepared and plan your structures and land development to prevent flood damage.

Schwacke & Associates takes into account the whole picture while working on surveying projects. From the beginning stages of planning, until we turn over a plat to you, we know the impact of development on the environment and surrounding communities. This is why we take great efforts to provide the most accurate data possible.

With over 80 years of combined experience, we are well versed in the codes, regulations, and jurisdictions of governing bodies in South Carolina. We stay informed on the important and changing regulations that impact surveying and land development in South Carolina.

When it comes to land surveying, accuracy matters. We use leading technology to provide precise results, so you can develop with confidence. We also value efficiency and being cost effective, saving you money. With experience, tools, and outstanding value, you can’t find a better surveying team than Schwacke & Associates!

Under Construction Elevation Certificate

This FEMA Certificate is issued during construction at the time the subfloor is being or has been installed. FEMA requires an Elevation Certificate for their National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). With this certificate, elevation information is provided for communities to ensure compliance with floodplain management ordinances. This is also used by property owners to determine insurance rates through the NFIP. In most cases, an Elevation Certificate is required for high-risk structures by an insurer before issuing flood insurance.

We know the importance of being prepared for natural disasters. South Carolina land owners are especially susceptible to the damaging impact of flooding. A FEMA Elevation Certificate not only determines a property’s risk of flooding, it provides peace of mind to the land owners. Be prepared and plan your structures and land development to prevent flood damage.

Schwacke & Associates takes into account the whole picture while working on surveying projects. From the beginning stages of planning, until we turn over a plat to you, we know the impact of development on the environment and surrounding communities. This is why we take great efforts to provide the most accurate data possible.

With over 80 years of combined experience, we are well versed in the codes, regulations, and jurisdictions of governing bodies in South Carolina. We stay informed on the important and changing regulations that impact surveying and land development in South Carolina.

When it comes to land surveying, accuracy matters. We use leading technology to provide precise results, so you can develop with confidence. We also value efficiency and being cost effective, saving you money. With experience, tools, and outstanding value, you can’t find a better surveying team than Schwacke & Associates!

Final Elevation Certificate

FEMA Certificate issued at completion of the building. All vents must be installed, lowest machinery must be in place, and grading around structure should be completed.

FEMA requires an Elevation Certificate for their National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). With this certificate, elevation information is provided for communities to ensure compliance with floodplain management ordinances. This is also used by property owners to determine insurance rates through the NFIP. In most cases, an Elevation Certificate is required for high-risk structures by an insurer before issuing flood insurance.

We know the importance of being prepared for natural disasters. South Carolina land owners are especially susceptible to the damaging impact of flooding. A FEMA Elevation Certificate not only determines a property’s risk of flooding, it provides peace of mind to the land owners. Be prepared and plan your structures and land development to prevent flood damage.

Schwacke & Associates takes into account the whole picture while working on surveying projects. From the beginning stages of planning, until we turn over a plat to you, we know the impact of development on the environment and surrounding communities. This is why we take great efforts to provide the most accurate data possible.

With over 80 years of combined experience, we are well versed in the codes, regulations, and jurisdictions of governing bodies in South Carolina. We stay informed on the important and changing regulations that impact surveying and land development in South Carolina.

When it comes to land surveying, accuracy matters. We use leading technology to provide precise results, so you can develop with confidence. We also value efficiency and being cost effective, saving you money. With experience, tools, and outstanding value, you can’t find a better surveying team than Schwacke & Associates!

Final As-Built Surveys

Our Final As-Built building survey shows all improvements as required by building department or lender. This also includes a Water and Sewer As-Built Survey showing location of water and sewer lines. Throughout the construction process, you may be required to submit as-built surveys to verify you are meeting zoning and building codes. The Final As-Built survey confirms compliance and allows you to complete your project meeting every rule of the governing boards.

While you are working diligently to meet deadlines, budgets, and regulations with your construction project, trust Schwacke & Associates to provide the accuracy and efficiency you need. We bring our combined 80 years of experience to every project. With state-of-the-art tools and industry-leading results, the Schwacke team is the best choice for surveying and construction planning. Following the latest codes, regulations, and industry standards, we prepare plans to meet the needs of the land’s governing bodies. As members of your community, we care about the impact of construction and land improvement projects. We bring accuracy, consistency, and exceptional service to every project.

Choose the team that has been surveying the Charleston area since 1991. We are rooted in customer service and experience, and agile enough to change with the industry. Using state-of-the-art tools, we lead the way in precision and consistency. You can plan on Schwacke & Associates to provide you the highest quality land surveys available.

Ridge Heights Survey

To verify compliance with zoning regulations, a ridge heights survey certifies to the height of the highest point on a structure. The height is measured against grade level, or the lowest point of elevation of the finished surface. Following rules governed by Charleston’s Board of Architectural Review (BAR) and other regulating agencies, our team will develop a survey to meet every requirement for certification. We are experienced and well-versed with building codes, giving you peace of mind that your survey will be completed thoroughly and correctly.

A.H. Schwacke has been a trusted surveying and construction planning company in the Charleston area since 1991. For 30 years we have provided accurate surveys and plats to move the construction of our great city. With over 80 years of combined experience, we are well versed in the codes, regulations, and jurisdictions of governing bodies in South Carolina. We stay informed on the important and changing regulations that impact surveying and land development in South Carolina. We take into account the whole picture while working on surveying projects. From the beginning stages of planning, until we turn over a plat to you, we know the impact of development on the environment and surrounding communities. This is why we take great efforts to provide the most accurate data possible.

When it comes to land surveying, accuracy matters. We use leading technology to provide precise results, so you can develop with confidence. We also value efficiency and being cost effective, saving you money. With experience, tools, and outstanding value, you can’t find a better surveying team than Schwacke & Associates!

Setback Clarifications

Setbacks are staked on site upon request to help ensure improvements are within the buildable area set forth by the building department. Setbacks are boundaries on the lot that restrict construction and improvements beyond the boundary. They are imposed most often to prevent overcrowding, ensure public safety, and to meet environmental protection guidelines. Following the boundaries of your lot, we will stake existing setbacks, allowing you to build within regulations.

We have the experience and knowledge of local codes to complete your setback clarification accurately. As a builder, your projects require a hefty amount of time, resources, and responsibility. With so many moving parts, trust Schwacke for your setback clarifications and surveying needs and build with confidence! For over 30 years, we have developed a reputation as a consistent and reliable team.

Using the latest technology, we provide industry-leading accuracy. Combining the newest improvements in our surveying with time-tested methods, we create plans, surveys, and plats with the best results. When it comes to prepping your site for building, you need a team that gets it right the first time, every time. Look no further than your Schwacke & Associates team!

Beginning in 1991, A.H. “Buddy” Schwacke III created the business after years of surveying experience. Since this time, we have grown in size and experience. Trust us to prepare your site for construction and handle all of your surveying needs!

Contact us today to discuss your construction surveying needs.