Purchasing a land plot, constructing a house, or installing a fence? In each case, you may need a Land Survey first. However, what is it and why does it matter?
A Land Survey is a precise map and report that a licensed surveyor makes. It depicts the shape, size, boundaries, and physical features of your property, including a building or a change in physical elevation of your property. It is not just the drawings, but it is the official document that determines the land you own or work on.
Why Do You Need a Land Survey?
Here are some common reasons:
- Legal boundary identification – If you’re building a fence or want to know exactly where your property ends, a survey makes it clear.
- Pre-construction land survey – Before starting construction, a survey sets out where to dig or build so your new structure stays inside your property lines.
- Land development approvals – Contractors and cities often require a survey for planning land development and issuing permits .
- Home purchase or mortgage – Lenders, title firms and buyers can demand a survey that will certify the size of the land, characteristics and encroachment.
- Handling disputes – A land survey can settle disagreements over shared walls, fences, or neighbour encroachments.
- Subdivision plans – Want to divide the land into numerous portions? A survey of the new layout will be required.
Types of Land Surveys
Different situations call for different types of Boundary Surveys. Here’s a quick guide:
1. Boundary Survey
Marks exact property lines using records and measurements. It helps confirm legal boundary identification.
2. Location Survey
Maps boundary lines and improvements or structures, driveways, or utilities as they currently exist. Useful regarding permits and loans.
3. Topographic Survey
Maps the land’s elevation, natural features, and man-made structures. Applicable in grading schemes or drainage schemes.
4. ALTA/NSPS Survey
A more detailed survey was applied in commercial land transactions. These features, boundaries, easements, and legal documents can all be included.
5. Subdivision Survey
Gives measurements and legal records required to subdivide new pieces of property.
6. Construction (Pre-construction) Survey
This survey, which is also referred to as a stakeout, involves the use of acceptable plans, which are used in delineating the precise position of foundations, utilities and roads.
How a Land Survey Works
A surveyor, who is an expert, observes the following steps:
- Research documents and maps to familiarize yourself with the boundaries of the law.
- Go to the location and measure with such useful tools as GPS, total stations, theodolites or even drones.
- Stringent boundary corners should be staked or marked with monuments so that they can be observed on the ground.
- Create survey documentation, including maps and written notes explaining measurements and structures.
- Deliver results, you get detailed drawings and documents that you can apply in development, legal, or construction uses.
Benefits of Getting a Land Survey
There are numerous benefits attached to getting a survey:
- Avoid legal disputes – You need to understand how far you can go before building a structure or fence.
- Follow building codes – Surveys will see to it that your project complies with the defined setback regulations, zoning, and permits.
- Prevent costly mistakes – The incorrect measurement will hold up the construction and will end up costing redesigns or even correcting boundaries.
- Boost resale value – It is helpful to have an up-to-date survey when selling or refinancing in the future.
- Build with confidence – A pre-building land survey is a projection of what you are building, so that all ends up in the right position.
Why Choose CRA Survey?
At CRA Survey, we specialize in accurate, efficient Land Survey services across Australia. Here’s what makes us stand out:
- Fully licensed and experienced surveyors
- Clear, detailed survey documentation you’ll understand
- Services for all major types of land surveys
- Support throughout land development approvals and construction
- Fast turnaround and reliable digital or printed reports
We are helping homeowners, builders, and developers make smart decisions with clear land boundaries and accurate information.
Final Thoughts
A Land Survey does not mean another cost. It can be a very effective safety, planning, or peace of mind tool. Be it legal identification of the boundary, pre-construction, or land development approvals, the first time is the last time, hence saving time, money, and stress.
Are you constructing, purchasing, or subdividing land? Unhappy with the feeling of confidence in the boundaries of your property? Call CRA Survey now to get a precise and professional land survey.
Last modified: August 25, 2025
