Buying a property is one of the biggest investments you’ll make, and ensuring you know exactly what you’re purchasing is crucial. A boundary survey can help you avoid disputes, legal complications, and unexpected costs down the line. But is it always necessary? In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of boundary surveys and whether you should get one before finalising your property purchase.
What Is a Boundary Survey?
A boundary survey is a professional assessment that determines the exact property lines of a piece of land. It involves reviewing legal records, historical documents, and conducting on-site measurements to confirm the official boundaries.
Unlike other types of surveys, such as topographic or subdivision surveys, a boundary survey focuses specifically on defining the legal limits of a property. It provides a detailed report and a marked plan, ensuring clarity on property ownership and use.
Why Is a Boundary Survey Important When Buying a Property?
Before purchasing a property, it’s essential to confirm its legal boundaries. A boundary survey can help in several ways:
- Avoiding Boundary Disputes: Confirms the exact limits of your property, preventing conflicts with neighbours over fences, driveways, or landscaping.
- Ensuring Compliance with Local Regulations: Some zoning laws and council requirements dictate setbacks and land use, which a boundary survey can verify.
- Identifying Encroachments and Easements: Reveals if a neighbour’s structure is encroaching on the land or if there are easements for utilities that may affect future development.
- Confirming Property Size: Ensures that the land size matches what’s stated in the contract, protecting buyers from discrepancies.
- Helping with Future Development: If you plan to extend, build, or make modifications, a survey ensures compliance with property boundaries.
When Is a Boundary Survey Required?
While not legally required for every property purchase, there are certain situations where getting a boundary survey is highly recommended:
- Buying undeveloped land or rural property: Boundaries may not be clearly marked, increasing the risk of disputes.
- Existing fences, structures, or landscaping near boundary lines: Ensures that these are correctly positioned within the property limits.
- Outdated or missing surveys: If the property has not been surveyed in many years, records may be inaccurate or outdated.
- Planned renovations or extensions: If you intend to build or modify the property, knowing the exact boundaries is crucial.
- Areas with frequent boundary disputes: Some regions have higher occurrences of land ownership conflicts, making a survey a valuable safeguard.
Before making a purchase, consulting a property boundary surveyor can help verify boundaries and avoid unexpected legal issues.
How Much Does a Boundary Survey Cost?
The cost of a boundary survey varies based on several factors:
- Property size: Larger properties require more extensive surveying, increasing costs.
- Location: Urban areas with dense development may have higher survey fees.
- Survey complexity: If historical records are unclear or the terrain is difficult, the survey may take longer and cost more.
- Additional services: If additional legal documentation or markers are required, this may increase expenses.
Generally, boundary surveys range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. It’s best to get quotes from multiple surveyors to ensure competitive pricing.
What Happens If You Skip a Boundary Survey?
Choosing not to get a boundary survey can lead to several risks:
- Unexpected disputes: Neighbours may challenge your property lines, leading to legal battles.
- Encroachment issues: You might unknowingly build on someone else’s land, requiring costly corrections.
- Complications during resale: Future buyers may request a boundary survey, and any discovered discrepancies could reduce your property’s value.
- Legal and financial risks: If the land size differs from what’s stated in your contract, you may face legal complications or financial loss.
How to Get a Boundary Survey Done
If you decide to get a boundary survey, follow these steps:
- Hire a licensed surveyor: Choose a professional with experience in boundary surveys.
- Review existing property records: Ensure the surveyor has access to legal descriptions and past surveys.
- Conduct an on-site survey: The surveyor will take precise measurements and mark boundaries.
- Receive a boundary report: This document will include a detailed map and findings.
- Verify results: Compare the survey with existing property documents and consult a legal expert if needed.
Now What
A boundary survey is an essential step when buying a property, especially if there are any uncertainties about the property lines. While it may not always be legally required, it provides peace of mind, protects your investment, and helps prevent potential disputes. If you’re considering a property purchase, consulting a professional boundary surveyor can help ensure you’re making an informed decision.
Would you like to discuss your specific property needs? Reach out to a licensed surveyor to assess your land before finalising your purchase.
