Essential Steps for Conducting a Land Survey Before Purchase

Conducting a thorough land survey is a critical part of the property acquisition process. A land survey provides clarity about boundaries, legal descriptions, and potential encumbrances, ensuring that buyers are fully informed before completing a transaction.

Why a Land Survey is Important

A land survey serves multiple purposes, including:

• Defining Boundaries: Clearly establishes property lines, helping to prevent future disputes with neighbors.
• Identifying Easements: Reveals rights of way or access granted to others, which may affect the property’s use.
• Verifying Legal Descriptions: Confirms that the land’s legal description matches public records and sale documents.
• Uncovering Encroachments: Detects any structures or features that cross property lines, such as fences or buildings.

Key Steps for Conducting a Land Survey

To ensure a thorough and accurate survey, follow these essential steps:

1. Hire a Licensed Surveyor:
   Select a professional surveyor with experience in the type of property you are purchasing. Verify their credentials and familiarity with local regulations.
2. Review Property Records:
   Gather existing deeds, plats, and maps from public records or the seller. These documents provide critical information for the surveyor and clarify any prior property disputes.
3. Request a Comprehensive Survey:
   Choose the appropriate type of survey based on your needs. For example:
   • Boundary Survey: Focuses on property lines and boundaries.
   • ALTA/NSPS Survey: Includes detailed information for commercial transactions, such as zoning and utility access.
   • Topographic Survey: Provides details about elevation and land features, often needed for development.
4. Attend the Survey, If Possible:
   Being present during the survey allows you to ask questions and gain a better understanding of the property layout and any potential concerns.
5. Review the Survey Report:
   Carefully examine the completed survey to ensure it addresses all concerns. Look for boundary discrepancies, encroachments, or easements that may affect the purchase.
6. Resolve Issues Promptly:
   If the survey reveals problems, such as boundary disputes or encroachments, address them before closing the transaction. Legal counsel can help resolve these issues efficiently.

Avoiding Common Survey Mistakes

Buyers should be aware of potential pitfalls, such as:

• Skipping the Survey: Relying solely on existing records can lead to unexpected boundary disputes or other problems.
• Rushing the Process: Failing to allow sufficient time for a comprehensive survey may result in overlooked details.
• Ignoring Survey Findings: Proceeding with a purchase despite identified issues can create costly legal challenges in the future.

Wade Litigation’s Guidance on Property Transactions

Wade Litigation offers experienced legal support for property buyers, assisting with issues uncovered during land surveys and ensuring smooth transactions.

A proper land survey protects buyers by providing accurate information and addressing potential conflicts before they escalate. By taking these steps, property buyers can confidently proceed with their investments.