Last Updated: March 8, 2026
When you need a residential land survey plays a critical role in property management and development in Florida. If you’re thinking about buying a piece of property, it’s important to understand the role that residential land surveys play in the process. A survey can provide critical information about the property, including its size, boundaries, and any easements or encroachments that may be present. This information can help you make an informed decision about whether to purchase the property and can also be used to resolve any potential disputes that may arise down the road.
What is a Land Survey?
A land survey is a process whereby a licensed surveyor uses specialized equipment to measure and map a piece of property. The surveyor will take measurements of the property’s boundaries and any structures or other features present on the property. This information is then compiled into a legal document known as a plat. The plat will show the property’s boundaries, as well as any easements or encroachments that may be present.
Why You Need a Residential Land Survey
1. To Determine Property Lines
One of the most important reasons to perform a residential land survey is to determine the property lines. The property lines mark the boundaries of the property and determine who owns which part of the land. If you’re considering purchasing a piece of property, it’s important to know where the property lines are so that you can be sure that you’re getting the property that you’re expecting.
For more information, see the UF/IFAS property and land use resources.
2. To Avoid Easement and Encroachment Issues
Another important reason to have a residential land survey performed is to avoid easement and encroachment issues. Easements are legal agreements that allow someone to use a piece of your property for a specific purpose, such as a utility company that needs to run power lines across your land. Encroachments are unauthorized uses of your property, such as a neighbor’s fence that crosses onto your land.
3. To Resolve Boundary Disputes
If you have a dispute with your neighbor over where the property lines are, a residential land survey can help to resolve the issue. The surveyor will measure the property and determine where the property lines are located. This information can then be used to settle the dispute.
4. To Prepare for Construction
If you’re planning to build a new home or other structure on your property, a residential land survey can help to prepare for the construction. The surveyor will take measurements of the property and determine the best location for the new structure. This information can then be used to create the construction plans.
5. To Obtain a Mortgage
If you’re planning to obtain a mortgage to purchase a piece of property, the lender will likely require a residential land survey. The survey will provide the lender with critical information about the property, including its size, boundaries, and any easements or encroachments that may be present. This information will help the lender determine whether to approve the loan.
What Does a Survey Include?
A typical survey will include a detailed description of the property and a map that clearly shows the property’s boundaries. The survey will also identify any easements or encroachments that are present on the property and will note any improvements that have been made to the land, such as buildings, fences, or other structures.
Conclusion
Residential land surveys are important for several reasons. They can help you determine the boundaries of your property, as well as the location of any easements or encroachments. They can also help you determine the best location for your home or other structures on your property. If you are considering buying or selling property, or if you are planning any major changes to your property, you should consider having a residential land survey conducted.
Will’s Service Group offers expert surveying services to help both commercial and residential clients get the surveying service they need. If you are looking for residential surveys in Florida, get in touch with us today!