đź“Ť What Is a Property Line Survey in Real Estate?

A property line survey identifies the exact legal boundaries of a parcel of land. It marks where your property begins and ends, helping prevent disputes, guide construction, and confirm legal ownership limits.

How a Property Line Survey Works

A licensed land surveyor studies deeds, plats, subdivision maps, and county records to determine boundary descriptions. They then measure the land using professional equipment and place physical markers at each property corner.

A property line survey typically includes:

  • Exact boundary measurements
  • Property corner locations marked with stakes or pins
  • Verification of legal descriptions in deeds
  • Mapping of fences, driveways, sheds, and improvements near boundaries
  • Identification of encroachments
  • Review of plats, subdivision layouts, and easements

The final map helps homeowners, buyers, contractors, and municipalities confirm where structures may be built and whether anything crosses onto adjacent land.

Why Property Line Surveys Matter

For Homeowners:

  • Prevents boundary disputes with neighbors
  • Confirms fence, shed, or driveway placement
  • Protects against future legal issues
  • Ensures additions don’t cross onto adjoining lots

For Buyers:

  • Confirms you’re purchasing the correct parcel
  • Reveals encroachments before closing
  • Helps evaluate land for additions, garages, or pools
  • Improves confidence during due diligence

For Contractors:

  • Determines safe and legal construction zones
  • Ensures setback compliance
  • Avoids costly rework or code violations

Example of a Property Line Survey in Action

A homeowner wants to build a new fence. Before starting, they hire a surveyor who discovers:

  • The neighbor’s existing fence extends 16 inches into their property
  • A shed built by a previous owner is partially outside the legal boundary
  • The planned fence route would have violated setback rules

The survey helps resolve the boundary issue, ensures compliance, and prevents future disputes with neighbors or the county.

Why Property Line Surveys Matter for FSBO Sellers

FSBO sellers benefit greatly from a property line survey because it:

  • Gives buyers confidence that boundaries are accurate
  • Prevents last-minute disputes during due diligence
  • Documents the correct lot size and usable land area
  • Reveals encroachments before they become deal-breakers

Providing clear boundary information strengthens your listing and reduces the risk of closing delays.

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