Whether you plan to build on your property or you just want a clearer picture of your property lines, you need to have your land surveyed. To do that, you need to hire a land surveyor. You might think that you can use a GPS device or your own best estimates to understand your property lines, but that's not the case. Trying to determine your own property lines can leave you with some serious problems. The best way to get an accurate report on your property lines is to work with a land surveyor. However, there are still some steps you can take to ensure the utmost accuracy. Here are three of those steps.
Give the Surveyor Room to Move
If you need to hire a land surveyor, the first thing you should do is clear the land. This is especially important if you plan to make some improvements to the land, such as building a new home. As part of the process, the land surveyor will walk the property, marking the boundary lines as they go.
If your land is filled with debris or if it's covered in weeds and brush, the surveyor will have a hard time marking the boundary lines. Unfortunately, that means you might not get an accurate reading for your boundary lines. It could also mean that you'll need to wait longer for the final report. To avoid those issues, clear your property of all debris before your land surveyor arrives.
Be Open With Your Surveyor
If you need to have your property surveyed, you need to maintain open communication with your land surveyor. This is especially important where costs are concerned. If you have a specific need for the land survey, you might not need to have a complete land survey done. For instance, if you want to construct a fence along a property line, you might be able to request a limited survey. To avoid mistakes, be clear about your specific needs when you talk to your land surveyor.
Don't Carry All of the Burden
If you plan to hire a land surveyor, don't forget to talk to your neighbours, especially if you have plans that involve the shared property lines. Talking to your neighbours will provide you with a couple of benefits. First, you can avoid property disputes if you're open and honest with your neighbours about your plans. Second, you might find that your neighbours want to have their land surveyed as well. If that's the case, you might be able to share the costs, which means you'll save money on your land survey.