Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Land Surveying Partner in San Francisco Bay Area
Founded in 1927, Kister, Savio & Rei has evolved from a land surveying practice into one of the San Francisco Bay Area's most respected multidisciplinary land surveying firms. Our seasoned professionals collaborate with clients across public and private sectors, industrial and residential development, delivering clear and exacting specifications on time, on budget, and with meticulous attention to detail. With expertise spanning civil engineering, land planning, and land surveying, we serve diverse clients including Chevron Richmond Refinery, the University of California, and local government agencies.Our surveyors hold TWIC Cards, undergo rigorous training programs, and are members of Operating Engineers Local 3, ensuring compliance with industry standards. As a family-owned business for over nine decades, we combine deep local knowledge with cutting-edge technology to address complex surveying challenges, maintaining a legacy of trust and technical excellence that has earned us 75% repeat business.
Services
Property Boundary Surveys
Construction Staking
Laser Scanning
Topographic Surveys
ALTA Surveys
Geotracker Surveys
Industrial Plant Surveying
Subdivision Maps
GPS Surveys
FEMA Elevation Certificates
Details
- Year established: 1927
Highlights and features
- 98 years of continuous service in the Bay Area
- Surveyors with TWIC Cards and specialized industry training
- Family-owned business with generational expertise
- Proven track record with major Bay Area institutions
- Commitment to technical excellence and client collaboration
Associations and certifications
- Operating Engineers Union Local #3
- ACEC (American Council of Engineering Companies)
- CLSA (California Land Surveyors Association)
- California & Nevada Civil Engineers & Land Surveyors Association
- State of California Small Business Enterprise
Services
Land Surveying
We provide comprehensive land surveying services including boundary determination, topographic mapping, and ALTA surveys. Our team uses advanced GPS and laser scanning technology to deliver precise measurements for residential, commercial, and industrial projects. With expertise dating back to 1927, we ensure compliance with California civil codes and county recording requirements.
Civil Engineering
Our civil engineering services support land development projects through site planning, drainage analysis, and utility design. We collaborate with architects and developers to create functional layouts that meet regulatory standards. The team's 30+ years of local experience ensures solutions that balance technical requirements with community needs in the Bay Area.
Construction Staking
We deliver accurate construction staking services to guide building projects with precision. Our surveyors establish reference points for foundations, utilities, and structures using GPS and robotic equipment. This service ensures alignment with approved plans and helps prevent costly errors during development of residential subdivisions and industrial facilities.
Aerial Surveys
Our aerial surveying service utilizes drone technology to create detailed topographic maps and 3D models. This approach provides efficient data collection for large sites like landfills and industrial plants. The resulting high-resolution imagery supports better decision-making for land development and environmental assessments across the Bay Area.
ALTA Surveys
We specialize in ALTA/NSPS land title surveys required for commercial property transactions. Our team follows strict standards to identify easements, encroachments, and boundary details critical for lenders and title companies. This service combines historical research with field verification to minimize risks for clients purchasing or developing commercial properties.
People
Donald E. Kister
Founder
Established the firm in 1927 and became California's first surveyor on the State Board of Registration. His legacy of technical excellence laid the foundation for our 98-year reputation in the Bay Area.
Charles J Savio
Co-Founder
Licensed Land Surveyor who partnered with Kister in 1955. Served as first President of Operating Engineers Joint Apprenticeship Committee, establishing our commitment to industry leadership and professional development.
Michael P. Rei
Co-Founder
Registered Civil Engineer who joined in 1963, expanding services to include civil engineering. His technical expertise helped shape the firm's multidisciplinary approach to land development projects across Northern California.
Patrick M. Rei
Current Owner
Acquired the company in 2000 from his father. Licensed Land Surveyor with 30+ years experience who continues the family tradition of quality service while maintaining board positions in key industry associations.
Questions
How much does a land survey cost?
Survey costs depend on factors like terrain, document availability, and scope. We research records and site conditions first, then provide customized quotes based on actual requirements.
Do I need to record the survey results?
Yes, California law requires recording surveys through Corner Records or Records of Survey. This documents boundary determinations and ensures legal compliance with civil code requirements.
Why choose Kister Savio & Rei for surveying?
98 years of Bay Area experience, principals with 30+ years expertise, advanced equipment, and a family commitment to community service and technical excellence set us apart from competitors.
What's included in an ALTA survey?
ALTA surveys meet national standards for commercial properties, showing boundaries, easements, improvements, and other title concerns required by lenders and title companies for risk assessment.
How are property lines marked?
We typically use 18" rebar with yellow caps bearing our license number. Alternative markers like wood stakes or brass tags can be provided upon request for temporary or permanent identification.
What if neighbors refuse access for surveys?
California law grants surveyors the right to enter properties to perform work. We make every effort to communicate with adjacent property owners while fulfilling our professional obligations.
