A Friendly Guide to Different Surveying Types in Australia
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):
What are the different types of land surveys?
Land surveys come in different types, each designed to help with specific property needs. From defining boundaries to planning construction, every survey serves a purpose.
Why do I need a land survey?
A land survey can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re buying property, building, or simply resolving boundary issues, surveys offer the clarity you need to avoid costly mistakes.
How much does a land survey cost in Australia?
The cost depends on the type of survey and property size, but the investment is well worth it for the accuracy and peace of mind it provides.
Can I conduct a survey myself?
Unfortunately, no. Only a certified surveyor can legally carry out land surveys. It’s not something you want to risk getting wrong, and a professional ensures everything is above board.
What is an identification survey?
An identification survey tells you exactly where your property boundaries are and checks if there are any structures or features that might be encroaching onto your land.
Introduction to Land Surveys
Let’s face it—property can be complicated. Whether you’re buying your first home, planning a new development, or just curious about your land’s features, getting clear and accurate information is critical. This is where land surveys come in.
Land surveys are essential tools that give you an exact picture of your property’s boundaries and features. Not only do they help you avoid expensive mistakes, but they also ensure that you’re following the law. In this guide, we’ll explain the six most common types of land surveys that could make your life a lot easier.
The 6 Types of Land Surveys
Boundary Surveys
Think of a boundary survey as the official “line-in-the-sand” for your property. If you’ve ever wondered, “Where exactly does my property end and my neighbour’s begin?” a boundary survey will tell you.
This type of survey is crucial when buying or selling property. It clearly defines the boundaries, preventing any confusion or disputes down the track. Without one, you might find yourself building a fence or structure on your neighbour’s land (or vice versa)—and trust us, that can get awkward!
Topographic Surveys
If you’re planning to build something on your land, you’ll want to know more than just the property’s boundaries. A topographic survey shows the lay of the land—the hills, valleys, and everything in between.
Topographic surveys map out all the natural and man-made features on your land, including trees, roads, existing buildings, and even power lines. If you’re building a house, road, or retaining wall, this survey will be your best friend in ensuring the design fits the terrain.
Contour Surveys
A contour survey is like a topographic survey but with a special focus on elevation. If your land is a bit hilly, this survey will show you how high or low the land is at different points, helping you understand the slope and how water might flow across your property.
Why is this important? Well, it could affect things like where you put your house or garden, and whether you’ll need a drainage system. Plus, if you’re on a steep incline, you’ll want to know the lay of the land to avoid costly mistakes in construction.
Identification Surveys
An identification survey is exactly what it sounds like: it identifies everything on your property, from boundaries to structures. This survey ensures that your property boundaries are clear and that everything on your land, like fences, sheds, or even trees, is properly accounted for.
An identification survey is especially useful if you’re buying or selling property or if you’re planning to subdivide your land. It makes sure that there are no encroachments from neighbouring properties and helps prevent misunderstandings about land ownership.
Subdivision Surveys
If you’re thinking about splitting your property into smaller parcels (whether for sale or development), you’ll need a subdivision survey. This survey outlines the exact boundaries of each new lot, ensuring everything is properly mapped and aligned with local zoning laws.
Subdivision surveys also help you get the proper approvals from your local council, so your plans stay on the right side of the law.
Construction Surveys
Once you’ve got your design plans, a construction survey ensures that everything is built in the right place. This survey marks the precise spots for buildings, roads, and infrastructure on your land.
Construction surveys are usually done before any work starts, so the builders know exactly where to place everything. They make sure your building project stays on course and reduces the risk of errors that could cost you more in the long run.
Why Choose EastWest Surveyors?
At EastWest Surveyors, we pride ourselves on delivering accurate, reliable land surveys that help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your projects go smoothly. Here’s why you should choose us:
• Expert Surveyors: Our team is highly experienced and fully registered, ensuring that every survey is done with the highest level of accuracy and professionalism.
• Comprehensive Reports: We provide clear and easy-to-understand reports, so you’ll always know what’s happening with your land.
• Local Knowledge: With years of experience in Sydney and surrounding areas, we understand local laws, regulations, and zoning requirements, which helps us offer tailored advice.
• Customer-Centric Service: We take the time to understand your needs and offer services that suit your project, whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Land surveys might sound like a complicated subject, but they are essential to making sure your property dealings go smoothly. Whether you’re purchasing a new home, subdividing land, or planning construction, the right survey can give you the confidence you need to move forward.
At EastWest Surveyors, we make surveying simple and reliable. Our team will help you navigate the complexities of land surveys with expert advice and accurate results. If you’re ready to get started with your land survey, contact us today and let us take care of the details for you!