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Property Survey

Property Survey

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What is a property survey?

What is a property survey?

A property survey is usually required by the settlement agent/attorney responsible for closing a property purchase transaction. The agent/attorney must have an accurate survey to issue a title policy which includes survey coverage. This protects the buyer and lender. A survey includes a legal description, property address, and locates all improvements, i.e. home, driveway, sidewalk, fence, and also shows easements for power or gas utilities, or any road access to an adjoining property.

How does a survey benefit me?

How does a survey benefit me?

A property survey verifies the location and dimensions of all boundary lines, and identifies any potential encroachments, i.e. structures that extend over boundary lines onto a neighboring property. A survey includes other measurements also, like the distance between a dwelling and road. Surveys are often reviewed by contractors before making improvements to confirm setback or other code requirements.

A survey verifies acreage

A survey verifies acreage

It’s critical to have a survey done when buying a property. A seller may misrepresent boundary lines, intentionally or unintentionally. You may be told you’re buying 2 acres and a home. Without a survey to verify the exact property dimensions, you can’t be certain the parcel is in fact 2 acres. It’s important to know all boundary line dimensions, and have all corners flagged or pinned for future reference.

A survey reveals flood zone data

A survey reveals flood zone data

A survey will reveal if a property is located in a Flood Hazard Area. If the property is in a Flood Hazard Area, order a Flood Elevation Certificate. This certificate will show the Base Flood Elevation and show the Base Floor Level of the home. If the floor is below the Base Flood Elevation determined by a Current FEMA Flood Map, you will need Flood Insurance. For more details visit: https://msc.fema.gov/portal


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