When should I get a survey done on my property?

A property survey usually involves mapping the house and the area around it, which would be covered by the contract. 

Surveyors could start by establishing the boundaries of the property, but they may also verify the land’s purpose as per local zoning regulations. For example, if the land was meant for agricultural use, you may need to confirm if you can build a house without also running a farm on the property.  

Further, you can check if there are any easements applicable to the property you are buying. For instance, your energy provider may have installed cables or other equipment on the land, which they would have the right to access whenever necessary.  

When you are buying an existing home, a survey can tell you about any potential risks in owning the home, and any restrictions on your rights as the property’s owner. Suppose you buy the property and, later, want to add more structures, subdivide it, or even start a home business. You can know in advance whether such activities are permitted by the local council by undertaking a home survey.  

Remember that while sellers are legally obligated to disclose some aspects of the property, as a buyer you need to do your scrutiny as well, such as through a house survey.

Depending on the kind of survey you want to undertake, the cost of a property survey can run into hundreds of dollars per hour, with surveys for commercial sites likely to cost much more. You could hire a surveyor just to confirm the property’s boundaries when fencing it, which may help if you anticipate issues with neighbors. 

Alternatively, you might want a building survey to understand potential legal or zoning issues when buying or constructing a house. You should prepare a set of questions that you want the survey to answer, which the surveyor can use to assess the equipment, time, and research required and estimate the cost. Consider getting quotes from several surveyors before deciding to hire one. 

Note that you are not required by law to conduct a property or house survey when buying, but if you can afford a detailed survey, you may be able to save on litigation costs later. You can, however, choose as thorough a survey as you prefer, based on your budget and most urgent concerns. Also, most mortgage lenders require a property valuation before approving your home loan, but some may also want to see a property survey report, particularly if the house is in a new development in a less known location.