A boundary survey, also known as a property survey or land survey, is a common service provided by land surveyors. This survey is conducted to determine and provide the property owner with accurate information about the exact boundaries of their land. By utilizing their expertise and specialized surveying tools, surveyors can establish and mark the corners of the property, creating a detailed survey report that can be used for legal and practical purposes.

Reasons to get a boundary survey

Property Purchase

For individuals purchasing property, it is crucial to know the exact boundaries of the land being acquired. This ensures that the property being bought aligns with the description provided and can help prevent any potential legal issues in the future.

Fence Installation

Installing a fence within the property boundaries is another situation where a boundary survey is necessary. Construction of a fence that encroaches onto neighboring properties can lead to disputes and potential legal consequences. By conducting a boundary survey, property owners can ensure compliance with local regulations and avoid any encroachments onto adjacent lands.

Property Improvement or Landscaping

Homeowners planning to make improvements to their property, such as adding structures, driveways, or landscaping features, can also benefit from a boundary survey. This survey allows homeowners to plan and complete their projects without encroaching onto neighboring properties, ensuring proper use of their land.

Title Insurance

Title insurance companies often require a boundary survey to issue a policy, as this ensures appropriate coverage and protection for the property owner.

Construction or Development

Construction or development projects also rely on a boundary survey to ensure adherence to zoning regulations and to avoid encroachments onto neighboring properties.

Boundary Disputes

Boundary disputes can arise between neighbors regarding property lines. In such cases, a boundary survey can provide valuable information to help resolve these disputes and establish clear boundaries between properties.

In Oregon and Washington, boundary surveys are essential for property owners to accurately determine their land’s boundaries and avoid potential legal issues with neighboring properties. Whether it is for property purchase, fence installation, property improvement, title insurance, construction or development, or resolving boundary disputes, a boundary survey in Portland is a valuable tool to ensure proper land usage and ownership.

Deliverable to the customer on a Boundary Survey Report

Property Description

The documents produced by a boundary survey include details about the subject property. These detail match the legally recorded descriptions.

Survey Plat

The survey plat is the drawing that shows the property lines in relation to identifiable landmarks, coordinates, and existing structures.

Easements and Encroachments

Easements defined by local codes can effect the ability to build or do certain modifications to a property. The boundary survey may include these easements when necessary.

Legal and Regulatory Information

Local or state regulations or zoning restrictions can impact the property, and the ability to build or modify the property. Including this regulatory information helps the property owner understand what their legal limitations are.

Surveyor’s Certification

A licensed land surveyor will sign and stamp the survey to certify that the information provided was completed under their authority.

What is a Boundary Survey?

A boundary survey is crucial in accurately determining the legal boundaries of a piece of property. Using advanced measuring tools and surveying techniques, a skilled surveyor ensures that the lines of a property are precisely defined.

This type of survey is commonly performed during property transactions such as buying, selling, or developing a property. By undertaking a boundary survey, potential conflicts and misunderstandings between adjacent landowners can be effectively prevented.

During the survey process, the surveyor conducts a physical inspection of the land in question to locate existing boundary markers. In cases where the markers are missing, the surveyor will install new markers. Additionally, the surveyor will delve into researching deeds and other public records associated with the property to accumulate further information.

Upon completion, the customer is provided with a detailed map, known as a plat, which showcases the property lines, boundary markers, and any pertinent measurements and legal descriptions. This comprehensive representation of the property serves as a valuable resource for individuals involved in property transactions or development projects in the Portland Metro area, Oregon, and Washington.