Land characteristics

Define in terms of grading and excavation, foundation requirements.

• Earthquake faults: How close and how risky?
• Elevations: Is the property level? Hilly? Marked by canyons? Are there rock formations that will hamper grading?
• Flood plane: Near enough to provide a hazard?
• Is a Geo-Tech evaluation required
• Is parcel large enough for your new structure?
• Riparian areas located on site?
• Soil type: Is it sandy, rocky, full of clay?
• Subdivision restrictions i.e. conveniences?
• Vegetation: Are there trees you can incorporate as a noise or sight buffer, or as an open space corridor for common use? Or will you clear everything to provide landscaping?
• Water: Lakes, lagoons, rivers, streams or ponds?
• Water table, percolation rate: Will these affect foundations and drainage?
• Will Snow load affect design of future structure?
• Wind or Sun exposure?
• Zoning limitations?
• Other ______________________

Services

Check those already in place. If not, how much will it cost to provide them, if required?

                                     Name of Provider

• Cable                      _______________________________
• Electricity               _______________________________
• Fiber                      _______________________________
• Gas                        _______________________________
• Recycling disposal    _______________________________
• Sewers, storm drains _______________________________
• Telephone               _______________________________
• Trash disposal          _______________________________
• Water                     _______________________________
• Other                     _______________________________

Improvements

• How much will it cost to install services and improvements?
• What will I have to build?
• What will I be assessed for?
• Power lines or transmission towers: Where are they? Will they interfere with my plans?
• Roads: Location? Are they adequate to handle increased traffic generated by my project?
• Traffic loads on major streets and highways?
• Existing buildings: Will I need to demolish them?
• Transportation infrastructure: Proximity of railroad lines, ports, freeways?
• Is a fire sprinkler system required?
• Purchase price vs. requirements to prepare site for new structure?
• Other _______________________

Amenities

Which of the following are conveniently located or accessible?

• Grade school
• Middle school
• High school
• Fire protection
• Law enforcement
• Recreation