What Is Survey?
Survey: A professional map of a property's boundaries, improvements and easements.
A survey is a drawing prepared by a licensed land surveyor that shows the property's boundary lines, the location of buildings and fences, and any easements or encroachments.
When it's needed
Some states, lenders or title companies require a survey; in others, it's optional. A survey can be needed to remove the survey exception from your title policy.
What it can reveal
- A neighbor's fence or shed on your land, or yours on theirs
- Buildings that violate setback rules
- Easements crossing the lot
- Differences between the lot you thought you were buying and the legal description
Cost
Usually $400 to $1,000 or more, depending on lot size and location.