Whether a person is buying a home, adding to their existing home, or erecting a new structure on their property, there's a good chance they'll need to hire a professional land surveyor. Many states actually require a survey on property before a title is transferred. Understanding the need for a survey and when to get one is important.

5 Things to Know About Property Surveys

• A home survey identifies precise property boundaries and features through fieldwork and record analysis.
• It is crucial for confirming legal compliance and resolving potential property disputes.
• Types include boundary, topographic, and construction surveys, each serving specific purposes in property assessment and development.
• Home surveys are conducted by licensed surveyors who ensure accuracy and adherence to local regulations.
• Property owners often need a survey before buying, selling, or renovating to ensure clear property lines and rightful ownership.

What Is a Survey?

A survey is a scientific, mathematical study of the land to determine the legal boundaries of a property. The purpose of a survey is to determine where one property ends and another begins. A survey filed with the local government is a public record and can be later referenced if any questions arise, similar to how you can see who owns a house.

Several different types of surveys exist, including boundary, topographic, construction, and ALTA surveys. Each has its own purpose.

Boundary Survey

Boundary surveys serve a crucial role by combining fieldwork and records research to accurately determine the corners and boundary lines of a parcel. They also may delineate easement lines, encumbrances, and encroachments, which are vital for real estate agents and homeowners. Governed by state and local requirements, these surveys ensure property boundaries are precisely identified, preventing potential disputes.

Topographic Survey

Topographic surveys, often sought by engineers, developers, and government agencies, map both natural and man-made features of a land parcel, such as elevations and contours. These surveys utilize aerial or ground-based methods to document elements vital for accurate planning and development. They require a deep understanding of local standards to prevent costly mistakes.

By capturing detailed information on the land's topography, they ensure that fieldwork aligns with municipal requirements, supporting effective project execution.

Construction Survey

A construction survey is crucial for any building project as it guides the placement of structures, roads, and utilities on a site. This type of survey involves placing stakes in the ground, pinpointing exactly where various features will be constructed.

Critical communication among engineers, surveyors, and builders is essential to ensure the build aligns precisely with the design documents. Experienced field surveyors can significantly save time and money, making this process vital in preventing costly errors during commercial or residential construction.

ALTA Survey

An ALTA Survey, officially known as an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey, is a comprehensive tool for developers, builders, real estate firms, and lenders.

It meticulously identifies improvements, rights-of-way, easements, boundaries, and restrictions on a property. Adhering to strict national standards set by the American Land Title Association (ALTA) and the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), it ensures that lenders receive consistent, reliable information across the U.S.

Preparing an ALTA Survey can be a lengthy process, often taking weeks or months to complete due to the detailed and thorough nature of the documentation required.

What Does a Survey Include?

The survey will document the boundaries of the property as well as the location of structures within the property. The survey also includes a written description of the easements and building setbacks. The survey may also describe the ground elevation at its lowest and highest point.

Who Needs to Get a Survey?

Many people see the need to order a survey at some point or another. One of the most common reasons that homeowners choose to get a survey is because they're planning to make an addition onto their Nashville home. When a homeowner is adding a room, it's vitally important to ensure that the addition they're planning won't fall on their neighbor's property. The survey can help prevent this from happening.

In most locations, there are building guidelines that specify how close a building wall can be from a property line. In other words, most places don't allow a building's wall to be located right on the property line.

In addition, some mortgage companies will require that a property buyer get a survey to ensure that the purchase includes all the land listed on the home sale contract. Additionally, some homeowners will get a survey if they get into a dispute with their neighbors over the location of a fence or another boundary-related problem.

How Is A Survey Performed?

Professional land surveyors use a variety of tools to get the job done, including:

• The home's deed.
• Altimeter.
• Digital theodolite.
• GPS device.
• Historical data.
• Landmarks.

The surveyor begins by doing research, then they set up markers that can help the property owner determine the exact location of the land boundaries.

What's the Cost of a Property Survey?

Land survey costs vary depending on details like the property size and the complexity of the survey. Some surveys cost as little as $100 or $200, while the most expensive surveys can be $1,000 or more. The mid-range price for a survey is about $400 to $500.

That said, many homeowners find that surveys are worth the cost. Surveys resolve disputes, prevent disputes and can even improve the value of the home, depending on the findings. Many homeowners who get a survey find themselves happy overall when the survey is complete.

How Do You Find a Good Surveyor?

The best way to find a good land surveyor is to get a referral. Many people get a referral by contacting a lawyer or a real estate agent in their area. It's a good idea to get quotes from several different surveyors before deciding on the final one. A surveyor who low-balls the bid may not be the best surveyor for the job. As with other things, homeowners get what they pay for.

If you're a homeowner who needs to get a survey performed soon, contact licensed professionals in your area and get started today.

Finding Boundary Lines Without Hiring a Surveyor

Homeowners can find their property's boundary lines using several methods without hiring a professional and paying the property survey cost. In some cases for newer homes, property markers or survey pins may still be in the area.

Plat Map

Plat maps serve as a vital tool for homeowners looking to identify property boundaries without the cost of a professional surveyor.

These maps, available at the county recorder or local tax assessor's office, display detailed information about land divisions, including exact dimensions and locations of properties. Homeowners can access these records online or in person, making it easier to understand where their land ends and a neighbor's begins.

Property Deed

While plat maps provide a general overview of property boundaries, property deeds offer a more detailed and legally binding description. Homeowners can access their property deeds through the county recorder or assessor's office, often available online.

These deeds include legal descriptions, possibly using metes and bounds, which rely on natural landmarks and survey markers. For those unsure of their property lines, consulting these deeds provides a precise definition.

Do You Need a Land Survey?

A home survey is critical for anyone involved in buying, developing, or renovating property. It ensures you're aware of precise boundaries, topographical features, and legal compliances. Whether you're installing a pool or looking at buying a home, understanding the property's specifics can save you from future legal troubles and disputes. Always consider a professional surveyor for accurate and legally binding results, ensuring peace of mind in your property investments.