đź“Ź What Is an As-Built Survey in Real Estate?

An as-built survey documents the exact location and dimensions of a property’s completed structures and improvements. It shows how the property was actually built compared to the original plans. As-built surveys are used for construction verification, permitting, renovations, and real estate transactions.

How an As-Built Survey Works

A licensed surveyor measures the completed construction and compares the results to approved site plans or architectural drawings. The surveyor records the actual placement of improvements, utility lines, elevations, and structural features.

An as-built survey typically includes:

  • Exact location of completed structures and additions
  • Measurements of walls, foundations, driveways, and utilities
  • Verification that construction matches approved plans
  • Elevation and grading details (when applicable)
  • Identification of deviations from original design

As-built surveys are often required before issuing a certificate of occupancy or closing out building permits.

Why As-Built Surveys Matter in Real Estate

For Builders & Contractors:

  • Confirms that construction meets zoning and permit requirements
  • Documents deviations for engineering and architectural review
  • Required by many municipalities before project approval
  • Helps avoid future disputes about non-compliant work

For Homeowners & Buyers:

  • Shows exactly how additions or renovations were built
  • Helps verify that structures were constructed legally
  • Useful for future remodeling, permitting, and selling
  • Supports accurate property records and disclosures

Example of an As-Built Survey in Action

A homeowner builds a new garage addition. After construction is complete, the city requires an as-built survey to confirm:

  • The garage meets all setback requirements
  • The foundation and footprint match approved plans
  • Drainage slopes away properly from the structure
  • No encroachments exist on neighboring property

Once the as-built survey is reviewed, the city issues the final certificate of occupancy.

Why As-Built Surveys Matter for FSBO Sellers

Sellers who have completed renovations or additions benefit from providing an as-built survey. It helps:

  • Give buyers confidence in the quality and legality of improvements
  • Prevent disputes about unpermitted structures
  • Support accurate appraisals and disclosures
  • Strengthen negotiations by proving updated work was done correctly

Providing an as-built survey can make your FSBO listing more attractive, especially when upgrades or additions are recent.

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