Boundary issues are one of the most common causes of land disputes in Canada. It can lead to stress, legal battles, and strained relationships with neighbors—all because proper boundaries weren’t established from the start.
The good news is, most of these problems are avoidable. A professional boundary survey can clear up any confusion before it turns into a costly mistake. Let’s break down some of the most common property line missteps and see why a survey is a smart move.
Guessing Your Property Lines? You’re Asking for Trouble
People love to eyeball where their property lines are. They’ll use the old fence in the backyard or a tree as a marker and just assume it’s right. But here’s the thing—it’s probably not.
Fences Lie, Trees Don’t Know Boundaries
Just because a fence has been standing for years doesn’t mean it’s where your property line starts. That fence could be on your neighbor’s land or in the wrong spot entirely. And that big tree? It’s not a legal marker.
If you’re basing your property lines on guesswork or “what looks right,” you’re setting yourself up for potential headaches.
A professional boundary survey fixes all of this. It gives you an exact map of your land, so you know where the boundaries are, plain and simple.
Relying on Old Surveys? Big Mistake
You’ve got an old survey or a property deed from when the house was built. Great! But here’s the problem: land doesn’t stay the same forever. If it’s been a while, that old survey could be out of date.
Land Moves—Literally
Erosion, construction nearby, or even just natural shifts in the earth can change boundaries over time. So, trusting an old survey means you’re using outdated info that might not reflect what’s really going on with your property today.
A new, updated boundary survey gives you a current look at where things stand. No surprises, just facts.
Building Without a Survey? Risky Move
You’re ready to break ground on a new fence, garage, or shed. Exciting stuff! But before you grab that shovel, ask yourself: Do you really know where your property line is? Skipping a survey before you build can lead to some serious problems.
Construction Mistakes Are Pricey
Imagine you put up a beautiful new fence, only to find out part of it crosses onto your neighbor’s land. Now, you’ve got to take it down, move it, and maybe even pay a fine. Not exactly how you planned to spend your time or money.
With a boundary survey, you can avoid these costly mistakes. You’ll know exactly where your property ends, so you can build with confidence.
Confused About Easements? You’re Not Alone
Easements are those little sections of land that, while technically on your property, aren’t entirely yours. Utility companies, or even local governments, might have the right to access them. This often catches people off guard.
Easements Can Be a Real Pain
Just because a stretch of land is part of your property doesn’t mean you can build on it. If there’s an easement running through your yard, you can’t block it with a fence or plant trees there. If you do, you’ll end up paying for it later—literally.
A professional boundary survey will map out any easements on your property, so you know where you can and can’t build. It’s all about avoiding unnecessary problems.
Skipping a Survey When Buying Property? Big Gamble
When buying property, a lot of people skip the boundary survey, thinking it’s not really necessary. But without one, you’re taking a big risk.
Get the Full Picture
Without a boundary survey, you could be buying land that’s smaller than advertised or dealing with existing boundary issues you weren’t told about. You might also be unknowingly stepping into a legal mess if there’s a dispute brewing between neighbors.
A survey ensures you know exactly what you’re getting—down to the inch. It’s like getting the full story before you make a big decision.
Neighbor Disputes? A Survey Can Save the Day
Let’s face it—nobody enjoys a property dispute with their neighbors. It can get awkward fast. But if there’s any question about where your land ends and theirs begins, things can escalate.
Keep the Peace
A boundary survey is a clear, legal way to establish where your property lines are. You don’t have to argue with your neighbor about that overgrown bush or whether their new fence is encroaching. The survey says it all.
It’s a lot easier to have these conversations when you have concrete facts to back you up.
Subdividing Land? You’ll Need a Survey
Subdividing a large piece of land is exciting, but it’s also complicated. A boundary survey is an absolute must if you’re planning to split up your property and sell off parts of it.
Accuracy is Everything
If you don’t get a survey, you could end up selling part of your neighbor’s land by mistake or creating lots that don’t meet legal requirements. A survey makes sure everything’s accurate and legal, so you don’t have any issues down the line.
Think You’re Fine Without a Survey? Think Again
Even if you’re not building, subdividing, or buying property, having an up-to-date boundary survey is still a smart move. Property lines affect more than just construction.
It’s About Protecting What’s Yours
A boundary survey gives you clear, legal documentation of where your property lines are. If a dispute ever comes up, you’ve got the proof you need. And if you ever decide to sell, it’s one less thing to worry about.
Conclusion
Getting a boundary survey might seem like an extra step, but it’s one that can save you from a ton of stress, confusion, and legal trouble. Whether you’re buying land, building, or just want to avoid future problems with neighbors, a survey is a smart investment.
When you’re ready to get clear on your property lines, reach out to the pros at Highland Surveying. They’ll get you the accurate info you need, so you can avoid the headaches and focus on enjoying your property the right way.
