The amount of work required after making an offer on a home and moving in might be more than you think. For example, some homebuyers may need to get a property survey before they close on a new place.
Property surveys are done to determine or confirm land boundaries, such as the plot of land a home sits on, and identify other types of restrictions and conditions that apply to the legal description of a property.
Whether you’re buying a home or building an addition onto your property, you’re going to need a property survey. Let’s explore in more detail when to conduct a property survey and how to get one.
When do you need a property survey?
If you plan to buy a new home or structure on your existing property, you may need a property survey to identify the precise boundaries and any potential restrictions. For instance, some properties have a right-of-way, which allows adjacent property owners to utilize a portion of their land to access their homes through a driveway or road. Other properties have easements, a service company’s (electric company, water or sewer company, etc.) right to access a portion of your property to make repairs.
A property surveyor identifies these issues, allowing you to modify your plans by moving the location of your planned structure so that it meets requirements and doesn’t infringe on any rights of other property owners or local ordinances.
How to get a property survey done?
Now that we have understood when to get a property survey done. The property survey can be done by hiring a property surveyor. A professional surveyor from the company who organises a survey when buying a house is an expert who will thoroughly inspect the property. They use their skills, education, and specialized field equipment to create legally binding property surveys. During the property survey, a surveyor will compare historical records and data with any existing markers to accurately define your property lines – and their findings are legally binding. . This process takes time, effort, and boots-on-the-ground legwork, so hiring a well-respected and -reviewed land surveyor before purchasing land or beginning any new home expansions is your best bet to avoid any legal issues in the future. Call around for quotes before you decide, and be wary of any too-good-to-be-true low estimates.
Conclusion
Property surveys are an important part of the home buying process. You might not need a property survey done before buying a home. In some cases, your lender or title company might require one, so make sure you’re prepared for the additional legwork and cost. As a homeowner, it can be beneficial to have a property survey if you decide to build, remodel, or compare property lines with your neighbor. There are many types of property surveys you can choose to have done, but make sure to pick which one is best for your situation and property. Having a property survey is something that will benefit you in the long run and prevent disputes from occurring.
