Is it worth getting a property survey done before purchasing property? What does a property survey actually tell you? In this blog, we will be discussing the importance of getting a property survey done and why it may be worth to get one.
Key Takeaways:
- Property surveys define the boundary lines of a property.
- Physical dividers (like fences or walls) may not indicate the actual boundary lines.
- Getting a property survey done before purchasing property will reduce the chances of any unwanted surprises.
- Knowing the true boundary lines of your property may prevent any potential encroachments or boundary line disputes.
Where Are My Boundary Lines?
A property survey is a map that defines the boundary lines of a property based on the county records and legal descriptions of the property. It is not unusual that the apparent boundary line of a property based on the layout of the physical property is not the actual boundary line.
This is very common even in developed communities in Southern California. For example, a fence on the outer boundary of the property could be located inches or even feet over or under the actual boundary line. Therefore, your property could be larger or smaller than you believe.
As another example, a portion of your driveway could actually be located on your neighbor’s property. As a result, a portion of what you believe to be entirely your property could actually belong to your neighbor.
Thus, getting a property survey will reveal the true location of the boundary lines of your property.
Getting a Property Survey Before Your Purchase
There are certain times when it is important to get a property survey. One of these times is before purchasing a property. Indeed, a buyer should know the actual boundary lines of the property they are about to purchase.
This will reduce the chances of any unwanted surprises and potential disputes with neighbors after closing escrow. Another of these times is before performing any substantial construction to increase the size of your property.
Knowing the true boundary lines of your property will ensure that you are building within your property lines. This will prevent any potential encroachments on the neighboring properties.
Even if you do not plan on buying a new property or performing substantial construction on your property, if you are a property owner and have not yet obtained a property survey, you may want to consider obtaining one just for peace of mind to know whether the perceived boundary line of your property is the actual boundary line.
In conclusion, it might actually be worth getting a property survey done before purchasing property. However, if you want that peace of mind after you’ve already made the purchase, you can still get one.
To inquire about scheduling a consultation with one of our attorneys regarding your boundary line dispute, please give us a call at (310) 954-1877. You can also text us at (310) 706-2265, or send us a message here.