Even if you’re new to land real estate transactions, you’ve probably heard of the term “land survey” at least once before. You might’ve initially heard it when you were buying your first home or when you inherited land and had a neighbor question your boundary lines.

What is a land survey?

A land survey is essentially like a map, it shows the legal boundaries of a parcel of land, as well as any easements, structures, bodies of water, etc. on it. It can also include mapping of the topography and locations of improvements made on the property. They are conducted by professional land surveyors.

Property boundaries are usually already established on private land. So, when a survey is requested, a land surveyor will look at old deeds and plats to determine where a property’s boundaries start and end.

Having a survey of your property is extremely essential to avoid a number of problems. You should get a one done on a property before you buy it and before financing it (if you’re not paying cash) since many lenders will require one. You’ll also want to get a survey whenever there is any confusion about boundaries and before dividing your property into other parcels.