Drainage, Stormwater & Flood

As-Built Lot Grading Certification

Final grading certification after construction confirming the lot was graded per the approved plan, often needed for a certificate of occupancy. Typical US fees run $300 to $1,500 per lot, and most projects take 3 days to 2 weeks. Our drawings, calculations and reports are sealed by a Professional Engineer (PE) licensed in the state where your project is located, ready for permit submission.

Typical US fee$300 to $1,500per lot

Typical timeline3 days to 2 weeks

Permit drawingsSealed by a PE

What the work involves

Many jurisdictions require an engineer or surveyor to verify, after construction, that finished grades, swales and drainage match the approved grading plan before a certificate of occupancy or bond release. The professional surveys the as-built grades and issues a certification or as-built plan, noting any corrections needed.

When you need it

Certificate of occupancy requires final grading certification
Builder must release a grading bond
Homeowner suspects the lot was not graded per plan
HOA or subdivision requires lot grading approval

What you receive

As-built grading survey
Signed grading certification letter
Correction list if grades do not match

What drives the cost

Estimate. Simple certifications on lots the firm designed are lower cost; independent certification of another firm's plan costs more.

Frequently asked questions

How much does as-Built Lot Grading Certification cost?

Across the US, as-Built Lot Grading Certification usually costs $300 to $1,500 per lot. Estimate. Simple certifications on lots the firm designed are lower cost; independent certification of another firm's plan costs more.

How long does as-Built Lot Grading Certification take?

Plan on 3 days to 2 weeks from signed proposal to stamped deliverables, longer if a site visit, soil testing or a permit review cycle is involved.

Do I need a licensed PE for as-Built Lot Grading Certification?

In most US jurisdictions, yes. When the work needs a permit, the plans, calculations or report usually must be sealed by a Professional Engineer licensed in the state where the project is located. Every deliverable we issue for permit is sealed that way.

Will I also need a land surveyor?

Sometimes. Depending on the site, as-Built Lot Grading Certification can also involve a land surveyor. We tell you up front which other professionals your project needs and coordinate with them so the drawings agree.

Who do you provide as-Built Lot Grading Certification for?

Most of our clients for this service are contractors, developers and homeowners. Describe your project and one of our engineers will reply with scope, fee and schedule.

Why is my CO held up for grading?

Some jurisdictions will not issue occupancy until grades are verified, because poor grading causes drainage complaints later. Final grading is often delayed by weather or landscaping, so schedule it early.

Who can sign the certification?

Depending on the jurisdiction, a licensed civil engineer or land surveyor. Check your local ordinance for the exact requirement.

What if grades do not match?

The contractor regrades and the professional re-checks before signing. Minor differences may be accepted if drainage still works as designed.

Can landscaping change my grading later?

Yes. Adding beds, patios or fill can undo approved drainage, so check grades before landscaping.