WHAT IS THE VALUE OF A SURVEY?

Having the protection of a land survey, and having the assurance that your ownership is secure against land title problems, will mean tremendous peace of mind.

You may believe that a casual inspection of your property will be sufficient to determine its boundaries and assure that all buildings, fences and other improvements on both your, and your neighbor’s, land are properly located.  If you purchase or improve your property without an accurate land survey, you may find that, for instance, your home actually is partly located on the lot next door, or your neighbor’s garage is on your lot.  These problems can be avoided with a proper land survey.

A survey is the measurement by a licensed surveyor of real property that delineates the boundaries of a parcel of land as further defined under state law.  A survey for land title purposes additionally designates the location of all visible evidence of improvements, encroachments, and easements.  Among things found on a valid survey are:

¨                   Date

¨                   Signature and seal of licensed surveyor

¨                   Description of property corners

¨                   Any visible matters which would affect your use and enjoyment of the property

Surveys have great value because they show where the property is, where improvements are located, if there are any encroachments, if any improvement are on someone else's property, how much space is available for possible expansions, etc.