In rural Ontario, it’s common for property owners to have a general understanding of their property boundaries and limits. However, as the years go on, sometimes those lines can get a little blurred and the true property limits become a little vaguer.
Land surveys are the best way for homeowners to get a specific understanding of their property lines. Land surveys define the points on a piece of land and calculate the distance between the points to determine the boundaries. It’s critical for surveys to be accurate and precise.
Keep reading to get a better understanding of everything you need to know about land surveys in Peterborough County.
Why Would I Need a Land Survey?
Land surveys are used by private landowners and commercial property owners alike. There are many reasons why a land survey would be required on your property and many benefits to getting one done.
Firstly, a land survey can help prevent boundary disputes and ensure that you are aware of the precise boundary limits on your property. If you’re planning any type of construction or improvement to the property, you should get a land survey to help identify any unknown easements, encroachments, and utility lines.
A land survey also prevents serious legal issues or costly mistakes that could set your project back. You wouldn’t want to accidentally build something on your neighbour’s property.
Land surveys are also sometimes required by mortgage lenders, to determine the value of your property, although this is not always the case.
Are you thinking about building on your Peterborough County property? Read some of our other blogs to get started:
- 4 Things You Need to Consider When Completing Cottage Renovations
- A Few Things You Need to Know About Buying Vacant Land
- A Quick Guide to Shore Road Allowances
What About Land Severance?
If you are planning to eventually sever and sell parts of your property, you will definitely need a land survey. In addition to defining the boundaries, a land survey can also identify any potential municipal regulatory issues that may prevent you from severing the property.
Think of it this way, a land survey is the best way to protect your investment (property).
How Do I Get a Land Survey
Land surveys should always be completed by a licensed Ontario Land Surveyor (OLS). It’s also a good idea to look for a land surveyor who has experience and expertise in your specific area and type of property. For example, working with a surveyor who specializes in residential properties over a commercial surveyor.
The land surveyor will use a variety of methods to research and examine your property, including but not limited to aerial drone photography, sophisticated infrared mapping tools, and more to create a detailed topographic map and outline of the legal boundaries of your property.
Thinking about building a secondary suite on your property? Read our blog series for everything you need to know about secondary suites in Peterborough:
- Everything You Need to Know About Carriage Homes and Secondary Suites
- How to Build Equity and Improve Home Affordability with a Secondary Suites
- A Practical Guide to Setting Up Your Own Secondary Suite
How Much Do Land Surveys Cost?
Most surveyors work on an hourly basis, so the cost for getting a land survey is entirely based on the size and complexity of your property. On average, you can expect to pay between $500-$1000+ for a land survey in Ontario. However, as mentioned, the price could depend on many factors.
When it comes to getting a land survey, the cheapest option might not be the best. Shop around and go with a surveyor who is trustworthy and knowledgeable. Look for positive reviews, and base your decision on that rather than the price.
To help reduce the cost of your land survey, you should ensure that the estimated property lines are clear and free of any debris that could hold up the surveyor.
Do you need a land survey? Thinking about buying or selling land in Peterborough County? We can help recommend a land surveyor to help with all your needs. Contact us today for more information.
