If you're planning to add an outbuilding to your property to use as a garage, boat parking, or as a large storage shed, you'll need to have the property lines on your land marked off first, especially if you have close neighbors.
Adding a building to your lot usually requires a boundary survey so you don't cross into your neighbors' properties or build on an easement. Here's a look at what boundary surveying can tell you about your land and how the survey is done.
Things You'll Learn From A Boundary Survey
Boundary surveying marks the corners of your property and the lot lines. This defines your space and separates it from your neighbors' yards. Knowing where the boundaries are allows you to find out if a neighbor is encroaching on your property or if a fence or building of yours is on a neighbor's land.
In addition, the survey marks easements that you need to avoid, such as a utility easement. With all of this information, you can plan where to build your outbuilding so you never have to worry about problems with neighbors or the utility company over the placement of the building.
When You Need To Do A Boundary Survey
Talk to a survey contractor about the type of survey you need to have done since there are other types of surveys for other purposes. You might need a boundary survey when you add a building to your land, when you put up a fence, drill a well, put in a septic system, or even build a chicken coop. You need to know where your property lines are so you can maintain the proper distance from your neighbors as required by local codes.
How Boundary Surveying Is Accomplished
There are a few aspects involved in boundary surveying. One thing the contractor may do is search the neighborhood for old monument markers from previous surveys. Then they take measurements of your land and look for boundary markers at the corners of your property.
Research is also done from records of previous surveys, historical records, and interviews. This allows the surveyor to obtain information about your property from various sources to verify where the boundary lines should be.
What Happens After The Survey
After the research and measurements are done, the surveyor creates a report that includes the location of your property boundary lines, easements, and setback areas. You'll receive a copy of the report and a copy may be filed with your county property records for future reference.
For more information, reach out to a local boundary surveying service near you to learn more.