Do I Need A Boundary Survey?

Many landowners are often unsure of what is needed when issues with their land come into question.  Land is often ones most important and valuable investment, so it’s imperative that decisions that could impact ones property not be made without careful consideration.  Boundary surveys are typically needed when;  a landowner desires to install a fence line surrounding the perimeter of their property, there is a boundary line dispute between adjoining landowners, there are possible encroachment issues between adjoining landowners, a new legal description is needed for title conveyance of a parcel or parcels of land, just to name a few.  A boundary survey will produce a boundary survey plat showing the parcel configuration, shape, bearings and distances around the perimeter of the parcel, controlling survey monuments, parcel number, right of way width, etc…

A boundary survey typically does not show permanent improvements within the subject property, unless the improvements appear to be possible encroachments, or unless specified in advance by the client.  Most states have differing standards as to what is required when performing boundary survey and what is to be included on a boundary survey, but all states require that a boundary survey must be performed by a Professional Land Surveyor within that state.  A boundary survey cannot be performed by an unlicensed individual.  A professional land surveyor can usually instruct a client as to what is needed in many types of boundary situations.  In some cases, a full boundary survey may not be needed, which would lower the cost to the client.  Many times, only a partial boundary survey may be needed.  These situations are dealt with on a case by case basis as the situations vary widely.