Are you a homeowner, dreaming of adding a sun-drenched second story to your house? What about remodeling to accommodate a spacious kitchen extension? Maybe you’re considering putting one of those trendy tiny houses for a private getaway or quiet workspace? Or are you finally ready to fulfill the kid’s wish for a pool… and you’ll throw in a spacious entertaining deck while you’re at it?
Before you start picking out materials and patterns, you have an important step to take that you may not have considered. You need to commission a professional land survey before you break ground. This detailed map of your property’s boundaries and features isn’t just a formality – it’s your safeguard against costly construction errors, neighborly disputes, and even zoning violations. The better you understand your land’s limitations and potential, you’ll have a smoother, more successful renovation journey.
WHAT IS A LAND SURVEY?
Land surveys are a meticulous map of your property. They chart the legal lines and descriptions that define your domain. It is a depiction of a particular piece of property which includes the specific measurements of the boundary. Additionally, it will specify any easements on the property. This is considered a Boundary Survey, which is a type of land survey.
Land surveys can also reveal the hidden infrastructure beneath and the improvements you’ve made on the surface. When the map includes improvements made, such as extended structures, fences, walls and driveways, the survey may be referred to as an “as built” survey. Surveys may also show setback lines and public rights of way.
HOW IS A LAND SURVEY DIFFERENT FROM OTHER TYPES OF SURVEYS?
Land surveys are distinct from other types of surveys in several key ways.
Purpose
- Land surveys are primarily used for legal purposes, such as establishing property lines, verifying ownership, and ensuring compliance with building codes. They can also be used for planning construction projects, managing land resources, and resolving property disputes.
- Other survey types serve a wide range of purposes, such as market research, public policy development, academic research, and quality control.
Regulations
- Land surveys can be subject to specific regulations and standards set by government agencies or professional organizations to ensure accuracy and reliability.
- Other surveys may have less stringent regulations, depending on the type of survey and its intended use.
Focus
- The primary focus of a land survey is on the physical characteristics of a piece of land, including its boundaries, topography, and improvements (such as buildings and fences). They aim to create a precise and accurate map of the land’s features.
- They are concerned with the legal aspects of land ownership and use.
- It is a detailed map of your property.
- Other surveys can cover a wide range of subjects, from demographics and public opinion to market research and environmental factors. Their focus is on gathering information about people, things, or events, rather than the physical characteristics of a specific location.
Methodology
- Land surveys typically require specialized equipment and techniques to complete the job. This can include theodolites, GPS, total stations, and surveying levels. These tools allow surveyors to measure distances, angles, and elevations with high accuracy.
- Land surveys also require research into existing public records, historical documents, and property deeds.
- Other surveys may use a variety of methods to collect data, depending on the type of information being sought. This could include interviews, questionnaires, observations, remote sensing techniques like satellite imagery, or even statistical analysis of existing data.
Deliverables
- Once a land surveyor completes their job, they will present a detailed map or plat which accurately depicts the property’s boundaries, topography, and other features of the land. This map may also include additional information, such as easements, setbacks, and utility locations.
- They are often accompanied by a written report that includes measurements, calculations, and legal descriptions.
- Other surveys can produce a variety of deliverables, depending on the purpose of the survey. This could include reports, charts, graphs, or even statistical models.
Applications
- Land surveys are essential for a wide range of applications, such as real estate transactions, construction projects, boundary disputes, and land use planning.
- Other surveys have a wide range of applications depending on the type of information being collected. They can be used for market research, public policy development, academic research, and many other purposes.
HOW CAN A LAND SURVEY IMPACT YOUR HOME RENOVATION OR ADDITION PROJECT?
Why should your home improvement project start with a land survey which could potentially reveal information that forces you to adjust your initial plans? For any property owner, a land survey is like a trusted confidante. It unlocks the truth about your boundaries, ensuring you know exactly what you own and where you can build your dreams. It will shield against potential disputes, providing a clear marker that prevents you or your neighbors from accidentally (or not so accidentally) encroaching on each other’s domain.
If you are a homeowner, a land survey can become a necessity in these three major considering a construction project that falls into one of these three categories, then you need a land survey conducted.
1. Defining and Protecting Property Lines.
Having a land survey conducted will ensure the proper placement of any structures you are building or adding on to. Whether you’re building a fence, shed, or even a major addition to your home, a land survey ensures you’re not encroaching on your neighbor’s property or violating any local zoning regulations. You’ll be avoiding property disputes in the future.
It can also help you protect your property’s value. Knowing the exact size and dimensions of your property can help you accurately list it for sale and avoid potential legal issues that could arise from inaccurate property descriptions.
2. Facilitating Construction and Renovations
Many municipalities require a land survey as part of the building permit process. Depending on what you are building or expanding, building permits may be required. A land survey will help keep your project in compliance with zoning regulations and setback requirements.
Even if your project is as straightforward as redesigning your landscaping, a land survey is there to help. It will give you the information you need to plan the placement of your new plants, shrubs, trees, fountains, patios, decks, pools and other outdoor features. You’ll know precisely where you can establish your new features safely within your property boundaries without interfering with existing utilities or easements.
Your land survey will also help you know your property’s elevation. This is particularly important for projects involving drainage systems or retaining walls. Precision is key and your land survey will provide it.
3. Addressing Legal and Financial Matters:
If there are any discrepancies or uncertainties about your property’s legal description or ownership, a land survey can help clarify the situation and resolve any potential title issues.
Some insurance companies may require a land survey before issuing a homeowner’s insurance policy. This helps them accurately assess the risk associated with your property.
When you’re buying or refinancing your home, a land survey may be required by your lender to verify the property’s value and ensure there are no outstanding encumbrances on the title.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Whether it’s locating buried utilities to avoid costly digging mishaps, verifying available space for your expansion plans, or ensuring compliance with local regulations, a land survey is the critical and foundational element of successful construction and home improvement projects.
It empowers you to confidently navigate the construction process, setting accurate terms with contractors and lenders, and ultimately, unlocking the full potential of your home. Land surveys also provide peace of mind, protect property rights, and facilitate important projects and decisions. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or a first-time buyer, conducting a land survey is always a wise investment in the long run.
