Model homes with string boundary line
If you own a home or any type of property, you likely have a general understanding of where your land ends and your neighbor's begins. However, without concrete proof, understanding your property boundaries can be challenging. This article will guide you through the process of finding your property lines and explain why it is crucial to know them.
Why Knowing Your Property Boundaries Matters
Property boundaries are more than just lines on a map. They legally establish the limits of your property and prevent potential disputes. Despite their significance, many homeowners are unaware of their exact property boundaries. Let's explore some situations where knowing your property lines becomes essential.
Situations When Knowing Your Property Boundaries is Crucial
When Transferring Property Ownership
When applying for a mortgage or transferring title ownership, you need to know the dimensions of your property. In such cases, it may be necessary to hire a professional and conduct an ALTA survey. These surveys meet the requirements set by the American Land Title Association (ALTA) and provide accurate information to ensure a smooth transfer of ownership.
When a Property Line Dispute Occurs
Property line disputes can be a headache, especially when dealing with aggressive neighbors. The best way to resolve these disputes is by clearly defining your property boundaries. By staking your property lines, you can quickly resolve existing conflicts and prevent future ones from arising.
When Buying or Selling Property
If you are buying or selling a home or land, it is crucial to define the property boundaries. Knowing the exact dimensions of the land you are purchasing will help you make informed decisions. Additionally, providing potential buyers with a map of the property boundaries can greatly enhance their confidence in making a sound purchase.
When Undertaking Construction Work
Whether you are renovating or constructing new buildings, knowing your property boundaries is essential. This knowledge ensures that your construction project avoids encroaching on neighboring properties. It would be disheartening to invest time and money into building an addition to your home only to find out it violates someone else's property line.
Ways to Determine Your Property Boundaries
If you are engaged in a dispute, planning construction, or preparing to buy or sell real estate, here are three methods to discover your property lines:
Go to Your County Recorder's Office
Visit your local county recorder's office to access public records related to your property. These records usually contain maps, reports, and other documents that help define your property boundaries. Many county recorders now offer online access, making it convenient to obtain the information you need.
Contact the Previous Property Owner or Construction Company
If there are no public records available, reach out to the previous property owner or the construction company that worked on the property. They may have a copy of a map or report outlining the property boundaries.
Get a Boundary Survey Done
The most accurate method to determine your property boundaries is by hiring a licensed land surveyor. These professionals will measure your property and provide precise information about your boundary lines. Different types of surveys, such as subdivision surveys or topo surveys, can provide more specific information if needed.
Don't hesitate to consult a member of our experienced surveying team if you are unsure about the type of survey you require.
Do I Need a Land Surveyor to Determine My Property Boundaries?
If you have exhausted all other options and still cannot definitively determine your property boundaries, it is advisable to hire a land surveyor. While you can attempt to survey the land yourself, only a licensed and certified surveyor's evaluation is considered official. It is better to trust the expertise of professionals when it comes to accurately defining your property lines.
What Are the Costs Involved in Hiring a Land Surveyor?
The cost of a boundary survey depends on the size of your property and the time required to gather all the necessary data. Fortunately, boundary surveys are generally not too expensive since they are the most basic type of survey. On average, you can expect to spend between $100 and $500 for a boundary survey on an average-sized property. To get an accurate cost estimate, it is best to consult with an experienced land surveyor.
Contact a Reliable Land Surveyor Today
At Scalice Land Surveying, our team follows the highest standards and guidelines set by the National Society of Professional Surveyors. If you need to know where your property boundaries are located, do not hesitate to contact us for a free estimate on a boundary survey. Our experienced and knowledgeable surveyors will ensure you have the information you need to make informed decisions about your property.
