What is a Boundary Survey and Why Do I Need It?

A boundary survey is exactly what it sounds like: it is a property survey that helps to establish, or re-establish, the legal boundaries of a property and provides a detailed description of the same. This can include but isn’t limited to, locating property corners (iron rods, pipes, concrete monuments of importance underneath the property's surface), as well as any easements on the land contained within the public record or located as a result of the survey. It is the most common type of survey performed during the property purchase process. If applicable, a boundary survey will also note the size and location of the home as well as other buildings or improvements such as swimming pools, fences, and driveways.

Why do I need one?

In the state of Florida, it is the responsibility of the buyer to have a boundary survey performed on the land before they purchase it. This will most often occur at the request of a prospective mortgage lender. The reason why is simple: as a buyer, you should know precisely what you’re purchasing. The boundary survey helps to certify that the square footage of the property being purchased is accurate to the seller’s description and that the land is free of certain defects or easements that may otherwise devalue the land. Even though a current homeowner may not have made changes to their property, the neighbor may have which could adversely affect the property. Therefore, it’s always in the best interest of the buyer to get a new survey.

A buyer who fails to perform this survey is not only risking their financial future, should the purchase of their property be under false or mistaken pretenses, but also may potentially be putting themselves in violation of municipal laws and ordinances governing real estate transactions.

The problem is, there's no telling how many years ago the last boundary survey was performed on the land unless the seller chooses to furnish the buyer with the last known survey of the land – if they have one at all. Regardless of whether the seller has an updated boundary survey, the buyer should always get a new survey certified to them. This will ensure that the survey is up to date and will give you an accurate description of what you own.

First Choice Surveying is one of the premier providers of boundary surveys in the state of Florida. Our primary goal is to exceed your expectations. We are always happy to provide a quote for interested parties who may be unsure of whether their property is standard. Reach out to us today to request a consultation, and rest assured with the peace of mind that a proper boundary survey can bring.

‍