Should a retracing surveyor rely on tax maps or abbreviated descriptions?

In retracing surveys, reliance on tax maps or abbreviated descriptions is generally discouraged due to their lack of precision and potential for inaccuracies. Tax maps and abbreviated property descriptions may not reflect the latest changes in property boundaries, improvements, or surveys that provide essential details for accurate property delineation. They often represent generalized information rather than precise measurements, which can lead to errors, misconceptions, or disputes related to property lines.

For a retracing surveyor, using high-quality, verified measurements and documents is crucial. This means prioritizing surveys that meet professional standards and are legally reliable, rather than relying on outdated or unofficial sources, such as tax maps that may not have been updated to reflect reality. Consequently, the emphasis on accuracy and reliability in retracing surveys mandates a cautious approach to using such materials.