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A land survey, conducted by a licensed surveyor, accurately measures and maps property boundaries and features, playing a crucial role in property transactions, construction projects, dispute resolution, land development, legal compliance, and environmental protection.

Depending on the type of survey, the information can include property boundaries, topographic features such as structures and elevations across the property as well as easements and encumbrances on over the property. A survey is essential for accurately determining property boundaries, avoiding disputes with neighbors, and ensuring compliance with zoning and construction regulations. By providing precise information on property dimensions, features, and potential encroachments, it helps property owners make informed decisions related to construction projects, land transactions, and land management.

Although an old survey can offer useful insights, it may not accurately represent the current state of your property. Changes can occur over time due to new construction on the subject or neighbouring property, natural events or landscaping. Additionally, statutory requirements and surveying standards have changed over the years and an old plan is likely not up to date with current regulations. Obtaining an up to date survey guarantees that you have the most current and precise information, enabling you to make well-informed decisions and prevent potential disputes or issues related to your property.

The type of land survey you need depends on your specific goals and requirements. A boundary survey determines the corners and boundaries of a property, helping to resolve disputes and clarify ownership. A plan of survey depicts the boundaries of a property, the measurements, and the relative position of the buildings or structures on the property, as well as any rights-of-way or easements.

Topographic surveys map the property's physical features, contours, and elevations, which is useful for design and development.

Construction surveys guide the building process, ensuring that structures are accurately placed and built according to design specifications.

To determine the most suitable survey for your needs, feel free to contact us with a request and we would be happy to guide you through the process.

An easement is a legal right granted to someone that allows them to use a specific portion of another person's property for a particular purpose. It grants a non-possessory interest in the property, meaning the holder of the easement does not own the land but has the right to use it as specified in the easement agreement.

Easements can take various forms and serve different purposes. Some common types of easements include:
- Right-of-way
- Utility Easement
- Drainage Easement

The cost of a survey can differ based on factors such as the survey type, property size and complexity, location, and landscape all play a role. We can guide you in selecting the suitable survey for your requirements and offer a cost estimate.

The time it takes to complete a land survey depends on several factors. These include the size and complexity of the property, the current weather conditions, and how accessible the property is. The type of survey needed also plays a big role.

When it comes to field work, smaller residential surveys usually take a few hours to a day to complete. On the other hand, larger or more complex projects can span several days or even weeks.

The final turnaround time for the survey also hinges on the amount of office review, calculations, and plan preparation required. Additionally, any unique aspects or complexities related to the property being surveyed can affect the timeline.

While a land survey is not always legally required for buying or selling a property, it is highly recommended. A survey can reveal potential issues, such as encroachments, easements, or discrepancies in property boundaries that could affect the transaction. Both buyers and sellers benefit from having an accurate representation of the property, and a plan of survey can help avoid future disputes and ensures a smoother transaction. Some lenders or title insurance companies may also require a survey as part of their due diligence process.

Interpreting a land survey plan or report involves understanding its key elements. Familiarize yourself with the title block, scale (proportion of the plan to real-world dimensions), legend, property lines and dimensions, and any easements or rights-of-way. Additionally, look for topographic details, structures, and natural features as they pertain to the boundary or areas of interest.

A plan of survey focuses on determining the exact property lines and corners of a parcel of land, while a topographic survey maps the elevation, contours, and physical features of a site. A plan of survey is used to resolve property disputes, ensure legal compliance, and establish accurate property descriptions, while topographic surveys help with construction, land development, and engineering projects by providing detailed information on the terrain and existing features. These two types of plans can be combined and a plan of survey can show topographic features.

A land survey can help resolve property disputes or encroachments by providing a precise and accurate representation of the property's boundaries, corners, and any relevant physical features. This information enables property owners to confirm the extent of their property and identify any potential boundary issues, such as encroachments by neighboring structures, fences, or vegetation. A plan of survey serves as a legal document that can be used to support a property owner's case in negotiations or legal proceedings, ultimately helping to resolve disputes and protect their property rights.

In Ontario, land surveys are not always required for obtaining building permits or carrying out construction projects, but many municipalities and approval authorities recommend or require a survey, such as a topographic survey or site plan, as part of the permit application process. A plan of survey can help ensure that your project complies with zoning bylaws, setback requirements, and other regulations, while also minimizing the risk of future property disputes or encroachments.

The frequency for updating land surveys depends on factors such as the extent of changes to the property and its surroundings. We recommend obtaining an up-to-date survey when buying, selling, refinancing, planning construction, or disputing property boundaries. While there is no strict rule, it is certainly beneficial to have a current survey of your property to ensure you have accurate information regarding occupation as it pertains to your property.