When going through the home buying process, there are various tasks that must be completed to ensure everything is in proper order. One important step is obtaining a property survey, which is commonly conducted to verify the official boundaries of the property.
To gain a better understanding of property surveys, including the different types available and how they are carried out, let’s delve into the basics in case you find yourself needing one.
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What is a property survey?
To begin, let’s clarify the meaning of a property survey. It is an authorized documentation and assessment of the legally acknowledged boundaries and characteristics of a property.
Primarily, a property survey assists in determining and establishing the limits of a specific land area, identifying any discrepancies or problems from previous records, and assessing the feasibility of carrying out construction projects on that land.
Typically, the survey includes a map displaying the property and its boundaries, accompanied by a written report outlining the findings and suggestions of the surveyor.
A property survey is a process that is often undertaken when you are considering building a new structure on your property, like a pool or accessory dwelling unit (ADU).
It is also commonly done when you plan to install a fence, as it is important to know the exact boundaries of your property.
Additionally, if you are looking to buy a new home, you may want to review the results of a property survey to ensure that the property meets all the necessary codes and requirements.
Why is a property survey important?
Understanding what a property survey is essential for various reasons. One of the main benefits is that it helps prevent disputes with neighbors regarding property boundaries. By knowing exactly where your property line is, you can avoid any accusations of encroachment on their land.
Additionally, having a clear understanding of your property limits is crucial in cases of accidents or damages. For instance, if a tree falls on your property, your neighbors may claim it as yours, making you responsible for its cleanup.
By having a property survey, you can establish who is accountable based on the boundary line between the properties. Moreover, property surveys play a significant role in determining the value of your property. Potential buyers may be deterred from purchasing a property without clearly defined boundary lines due to the potential complications it can cause.
Types of property surveys
A property survey is conducted to serve various purposes and there are several types of surveys available depending on your specific requirements. Below are some commonly encountered property survey types:
Mortgage survey
A property survey is a necessary step when applying for a mortgage loan, as it helps lenders verify that the property in question aligns with the relevant legal documents.
Boundary survey
A property survey is a helpful tool used to accurately identify the boundary lines and corners of a property. It is particularly useful in situations where there are concerns about encroachment problems with neighboring properties.
Topographic survey
A property survey is a method used to accurately depict the various natural and man-made features of a property, including their dimensions, height, and precise positioning. It encompasses buildings, trees, ponds, and variations in terrain elevation.
Professionals often utilize this survey to assess the feasibility of constructing a project in a particular area of your land, and it serves as a valuable resource during the planning and design stages.
How much does a property survey cost?
The price of a property survey can vary based on various factors such as the type of survey, the extent of the assessment, the geographical location, the timing, and the chosen surveyor.
The size of the property is also an important consideration as some surveyors may charge based on the square footage or acreage.
Boundary and mortgage surveys generally tend to be more affordable, while topographic surveys may be more expensive due to the additional equipment and work involved.
Understanding that each situation is different, it can be beneficial to reach out to a surveyor in your local area for a personalized estimate that suits your specific circumstances.
Additionally, it may be wise to consider obtaining multiple quotes from different sources to ensure that you can make a well-informed decision.
Where can I find a property survey?
Imagine you have just purchased a house and are interested in examining your property survey. In some situations, you may be able to access a previous survey of the property without needing to hire a professional for a new one.
If you are curious about the details of a property, such as its exact dimensions, you can start by examining the property deed. Some deeds may provide additional information, like a boundary survey, which includes specific details about the property.
Another option is to visit the local courthouse, land recorder’s office, or tax accessor’s office. Previous property owners may have submitted a property survey to these institutions.
Additionally, many states and counties have specific departments that preserve these records, such as Planning and Zoning Divisions, engineering departments, and similar units.
How to get a survey of my property
If you are unable to locate a pre-existing property survey for your property, it is advisable to seek the assistance of professionals who specialize in property surveying services.
In the event that you prefer to handle a significant construction project on your own or sell your house independently, it is important to note that only a licensed professional is authorized to provide an official and legally recognized property survey.
When looking for a property surveyor, one option is to ask your neighbors or local real estate agents for recommendations. Another possibility is to contact the surveyor who previously surveyed your property, as they may still have relevant records and maps.
Alternatively, you can search for a professional property surveyor online. In this case, it is advisable to read reviews and choose a surveyor who is licensed to work in your state and is located locally.
What does a property survey include?
A property survey is a process that provides various types of information about a property. The purpose of the survey determines the kind of insights it will offer. Here are a few examples of the information you can expect to find in a property survey:
- Property elevation changes
- Hazard areas
- Flood-prone zones
- Exact dimensions and boundaries of the property
- Utility lines
How long does a property survey take?
A property survey is a complex task that involves various stages and should be carried out by a qualified expert. Due to its intricacy, it is reasonable to anticipate that the entire process may span a few weeks. It is advisable to discuss and agree upon a timeframe with the surveyor before commencing the project.
Do you need a property survey to buy or sell a house?
The necessity of a property survey in real estate varies depending on various factors. While some lenders may demand a property survey for mortgage purposes when purchasing a home, it may not be mandatory in other cases.
However, it is advisable to consider obtaining a property survey even if it is not mandatory, as it helps ensure that the property documents accurately depict the property. This advice also extends to homeowners planning to sell their house.
Are property surveys public record?
In most cases, homeowners are required by state authorities to provide the property survey to the local government. This means that you can usually find a property survey in the open-access databases of the government. However, there are certain situations where only the property owner and the surveyor have access to the survey results.
The Bottom Line
Understanding the exact boundary lines of your property is crucial when it comes to various situations such as purchasing a home, undertaking significant renovations, or installing a fence.
By having a thorough property survey conducted, you can prevent potential expensive issues and disagreements with neighbors in the future.
While it may not always be necessary to obtain a property survey before buying a house, there are instances where your lender or title company might insist on it, therefore it is essential to be well-prepared.