There are several reasons why you might need to conduct a land survey on a property:
- To identify the boundaries of the land you are buying or selling.
- To plan for the development of existing structures and estates.
- To protect your property rights.
There are a few points to consider when deciding on the type of survey required for your property.
Are you subdividing your property?
If you are subdividing your property a Subdivision DA will likely have to be lodged with your local council after a subdivision survey is conducted. To prepare this for council approval a feasibility survey and statement of environmental effects needs to be done as well as a plan of the proposed subdivision. A Registered Surveyor must prepare a Plan of Subdivision registration with the Land and Property Information (Land Titles Office). When the registration of this plan has been completed the new lots will have been created and new titles for each lot created and issued.
Are you building or replacing a fence?
It is important to have your boundaries marked by a registered surveyor prior to the construction of a new fence; that requires a boundary survey. The survey will determine the location of your boundaries which will be marked with either survey pegs or other survey marker. This ensures that the fence is in the correct location and will also limit the chances of any disputes.
Are you building a new residence or renovating/extending an existing residence?
If you are building a new home or making adjustments to an existing one, you need to have a topographical or contour and detail survey completed. This survey shows existing features of your property, levels and contour lines and any directly adjoining information that will assist with architectural designs. The surveyor will obtain a construction certificate that will then set- out the proposed residence with survey pegs which will ensure that the residence/structure will be located in the correct position based on the design. Before any concrete is poured it is recommended that a formwork survey is completed that will locate the formwork position and height to confirm it is within tolerances. Finally, an identification survey is done which confirms that the new residence meets requirements in relation to the boundaries of the property.
Are you buying or selling property?
An identification survey is required if you are purchasing or selling land. This survey identifies the wall to boundary dimensions of a residence and any structures and improvements near the boundaries. This provides the vendor piece of mind if any discrepancies or problems arise with neighbours or council in the future.