Knowing your property boundaries is crucial for various reasons, from construction projects and fence installation to resolving disputes with neighbors and ensuring accurate property taxes. A property survey provides the legal and physical description of your land. While professional surveys are recommended for official purposes, you can conduct a preliminary survey yourself to get a better understanding of your property lines. This guide explains how to survey your property, outlining both DIY methods and when professional help is necessary.
Understanding Your Property Lines: The Foundation of Your Survey
Before you begin any surveying, you need to understand the importance of property lines and what constitutes a legally accurate boundary. These lines aren't arbitrary; they're defined by legal documents and often marked by physical markers (though these can be lost or damaged over time).
Key Documents to Examine:
- Deed: Your deed is the primary legal document outlining your property boundaries. It often includes metes and bounds descriptions (detailed measurements and directions) or references to plat maps. Carefully examine this document; it's your starting point.
- Plat Map: This map shows the layout of your property and its relationship to surrounding properties. You may be able to obtain this from your county recorder's office or a local surveyor.
- Prior Surveys: If previous surveys exist for your property, obtaining copies can be incredibly valuable. They'll provide historical context and may show the locations of boundary markers.
Identifying Existing Markers:
Look for physical markers that may indicate your property lines. These can include:
- Survey Markers: These are usually metal stakes or pins, sometimes marked with identifying information.
- Fences: While fences don't always represent true property lines, they can offer clues. However, be aware that fences can be incorrectly placed.
- Natural Boundaries: Features like streams, rivers, or rock formations may serve as natural boundary markers.
DIY Property Line Identification: A Preliminary Assessment
While a DIY survey shouldn't replace a professional one for official purposes, it can be helpful for a general understanding.
Tools You Might Need:
- Measuring Tape: A long measuring tape (at least 100 feet) is essential for making measurements.
- GPS Device or Smartphone App: GPS can help you locate points and mark locations for reference. Be aware that GPS accuracy is limited.
- Notebook and Pen: Record all measurements, observations, and any challenges encountered.
- Camera: Take photos of markers, boundaries, and anything relevant to your property lines.
Steps to Take:
- Review Your Documents: Carefully study your deed, plat map, and any prior surveys to familiarize yourself with your property's description.
- Locate Existing Markers: Try to find any physical markers on your property that seem to denote the boundaries.
- Measure Distances: Using your measuring tape, carefully measure distances between markers and any relevant features.
- Record Your Findings: Meticulously document all measurements, observations, and marker locations in your notebook. Include photos for visual reference.
- Identify Potential Issues: Note any discrepancies between your measurements, the documents, and the physical markers. This will help you to identify areas where a professional surveyor may be needed.
When to Call a Professional Surveyor
A professional land surveyor is essential when:
- You need legally binding information: A professional survey is required for many legal purposes, including property transactions, construction permits, and resolving boundary disputes.
- You have unclear or conflicting information: If your documents are unclear, or if you've found discrepancies in your own preliminary survey, a professional can resolve uncertainties.
- You anticipate significant land improvements: Before undertaking major construction, adding structures, or extensive landscaping, a professional survey is highly recommended.
- You have a boundary dispute with a neighbor: A professional surveyor will provide unbiased evidence to resolve boundary conflicts.
Conclusion: Knowledge is Power
Understanding your property boundaries is essential for responsible property ownership. While a DIY approach can provide a basic understanding, hiring a licensed surveyor is crucial when accuracy and legal compliance are required. Remember that a professional survey is an investment in the protection of your property rights and future peace of mind.
