Introduction
Understanding Certificate of Merit – The State Landscape (Part 1)

In Episode 2 of our Certificate of Merit (CoM) video series, we dive into a critical piece of the CoM puzzle: how various U.S. states are responding to and implementing Certificate of Merit requirements for surveyors.

This video lays the groundwork for professionals seeking to navigate their licensure and legal responsibilities based on their state’s stance on CoM. Whether you’re actively involved in litigation, preparing for expert witness roles, or simply ensuring your firm remains compliant, this episode is a must-watch.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Regional Variance: An overview of how different states treat Certificate of Merit in legal proceedings related to surveying practices.
• Common Legal Language: Clarification on shared legal frameworks versus state-specific nuances.
• Requirements for Expert Involvement: Some states demand that expert surveyors sign off before claims move forward—others do not.
• Litigation Trends: What recent lawsuits and court decisions say about the evolution of CoM in the industry.

This is the first of a two-part state breakdown, equipping you with high-level insights into how laws vary and where you might face the most scrutiny as a surveyor.

Why This Matters for Surveyors

As the role of land surveyors grows more integrated into construction, real estate, and development litigation, understanding how and when Certificates of Merit are required becomes crucial. Episode 2 provides a strategic lens for identifying risks, minimizing liability, and ensuring compliance in your professional practice.

Whether you’re based in a state with aggressive CoM mandates or more lenient statutes, this breakdown will guide you toward better professional decisions.

Watch the full episode to stay ahead of regulatory and legal changes in your state.
Have questions? Schedule a free 15-minute call to learn how NLC Prep can support your preparation for CoM-related litigation.

Highlights

• States vary in whether a COM is mandatory or conditional.
• Some states require COM only in specific types of cases (e.g., involving licensed engineers or architects).
• Each state has unique timing, documentation, and submission rules.

Real-World Application
Working in a multi-state firm? Knowing the requirements in states like Texas, Florida, or California may prevent legal delays or liabilities. Even if your home state doesn’t require a COM, your project partner’s state might.

Takeaway
Always research a state’s legal expectations on professional liability before accepting a job. A COM may be the difference between a simple case dismissal and a drawn-out legal battle.