Every great real estate story starts from the same place, with the purchase of a piece of land. Before you purchase that piece of land, you’ll need a very important document called a land survey. Consider this blog post a crash course on learning everything you need to know about the all-important land survey, just in time for your next big purchase.
What is a land survey?
Simply put, A land survey is a detailed measurement and mapping of a specific piece of land. To get an accurate measurement of this piece of land and populate this document, land surveyors use specialised equipment and techniques to record things like:
- Property boundaries: The main purpose of a land survey is to clarify precisely where your land starts and ends.
- Land features: This includes things like buildings, elevation changes, and natural features like streams or ponds.
- Dimensions and area: The surveyor will measure the exact size and shape of the property.
As previously mentioned, land surveys are essential if you plan to kick off your real estate investment journey. They are important for
- Real estate transactions: A land survey is more than just a document. It’s a prerequisite for lenders when approving a mortgage for a property. It’s a tool that ensures all parties involved have a clear understanding of the land being bought and sold, minimizing the risk of disputes and misunderstandings.
- Boundary disputes: Do you have trouble with your neighbour about where your property boundary stops and theirs begins? A land survey can help settle the issue.
- Construction projects: Land surveys are essential for planning and carrying out construction projects. They help ensure that buildings and other structures are built in the right place and according to regulations.
Read Also: The Importance of Land Survey
What information must a land survey possess?
A comprehensive land survey is not just a piece of paper. It’s a powerful tool that can resolve legal issues, guide your next construction project, and provide you with a detailed understanding of your property’s boundaries. It’s an investment that can save you from potential headaches and legal battles.
To be able to perform all these, a basic land survey must have the following information:
- Title: This identifies the property and the survey itself. It will include the property address or a legal description and the name of the client who commissioned the survey.
- Date: This indicates when the survey was conducted.
- Professional Seal and Certification: The survey should be stamped with the seal of a licensed surveyor, certifying its accuracy and meeting legal requirements.
- Boundary Lines and Measurements: The survey’s core is a testament to precision. It shows the property lines’ precise location and dimensions, including the lengths of each boundary and the angles between them. This level of detail ensures that there’s no room for ambiguity, making you feel confident in your property’s boundaries.
- Area: The total property size, typically in square footage or acres.
- Map: A scaled drawing of the property showing the property lines, buildings, and other relevant features.
A more advanced land survey could include:
- Topography: This may be included in a topographic survey, showing the elevation changes and contours of the land.
- Easements: The survey will note any easements on the property granting rights to use part of the land for a specific purpose (e.g., utilities).
- Floodplain or other hazard areas: Some surveys may indicate if the property is in a floodplain or other zone with potential hazards.
- Written Report: The survey may include a written report detailing the surveyor’s findings and the methodology they used to take their measurements.
Read Also: Legal Framework Governing Land Survey Plans in Nigeria
It’s important to remember that the specific information included in a land survey can vary depending on the type of survey conducted and the requirements of your location.
Ready to begin your real estate investment journey and buy a property? Search through our listings for hundreds of options in Nigeria. But remember, the key to a successful purchase is a qualified land surveyor. Their expertise can save you from potential legal battles and ensure a smooth real estate transaction.