Improvement Location Certificate (ILC)
A lower-cost Colorado document showing improvement locations relative to boundaries — often confused with a boundary survey.
01
What It Is
An Improvement Location Certificate is a Colorado-specific document in which a surveyor shows the approximate location of improvements relative to the parcel's boundaries, based on the recorded description and found monuments.
An ILC is expressly not a boundary survey. It is not intended to establish or monument property corners, and it is not to be relied upon for erecting fences, buildings, or other improvements.
02
When It's Commonly Used
- A lender or title company requests confirmation that improvements sit within the lot
- A residential purchase in a platted subdivision where corners are already established
- Confirming that a structure does not obviously cross a setback or easement
- A quick, lower-cost check earlier in due diligence
03
Why It Matters
Buyers often receive an ILC and believe they have a survey. When a fence or building question arises later, the ILC's own certification language limits how it can be used.
Understanding the difference up front lets you order the right product once, rather than paying for an ILC and then a full boundary survey weeks later.
04
Questions to Ask
- Will an ILC satisfy my lender and title company, or do they require a boundary survey?
- What specifically will and will not be shown on this document?
- If I intend to fence or build, should I order a boundary survey instead?
- Will setbacks and recorded easements be depicted?
05
Related Reading & Resources
The most successful real estate decisions often involve collaboration between several professionals working toward the same goal. Understanding each person's role helps you ask better questions and make more confident decisions.
06
Other Types of Surveys
- ALTA/NSPS Land Title SurveyThe detailed, standards-based survey commonly required in commercial transactions and commercial lending.
- Topographic SurveyA mapping of elevation, slope, and physical features used for design, drainage, and construction planning.
- Easement SurveyLocating, describing, or creating the rights that allow access, utilities, and shared use across land.
Questions About Property Boundaries or Land Development?
Surveying often plays an important role in understanding property boundaries, development potential, and legal descriptions. I'd be happy to help you identify the questions worth asking and connect you with local surveying professionals as you evaluate your options.
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