What characterizes an existing corner in surveying?

An existing corner is characterized by having original monumentation that remains in place. This is significant in land surveying, as it provides a reliable point of reference for property boundaries. Such corners are crucial for establishing accurate property lines, determining property ownership, and ensuring compliance with legal descriptions.

When a corner retains its original monumentation, it usually means that it has been verified and can be used as a fixed point from which to conduct further surveys. This stability allows surveyors to maintain consistency in their work and provides confidence in the accuracy of the boundaries being established.

In contrast, the other options highlight scenarios where the integrity of the corner is compromised. A corner that has been moved during a survey or one that has a lost boundary marker indicates a lack of reliability and precision. Similarly, a corner that has only been partially recorded does not provide the complete information necessary for establishing a definitive property line. Therefore, the original monumentation's presence at a corner is what validates it as an existing corner in surveying.