If you plan to buy, sell, or build on a property in New York, you may need to obtain a property survey. A property survey is a document that shows the boundaries, dimensions, and features of a parcel of land. A property survey can help you:
- Verify the legal description and acreage of the property
- Locate the property lines and corners
- Identify any easements, encroachments, or restrictions on the property
- Determine the zoning and building codes applicable to the property
- Avoid potential disputes or lawsuits with neighbors or authorities
But how do you obtain a property survey in New York? Here are some steps that you can follow:
Step 1: Check if there is an existing survey
Before hiring a land surveyor, you should check for an existing survey of the property. You can do this by:
- Asking the current owner or seller of the property for a copy of the survey
- Searching the county clerk’s office or the local tax assessor’s office for recorded survey maps
- Contacting the Office of General Services (OGS) Bureau of Land Management for state-owned lands and waters
- Using online resources such as the New York State Association of Professional Land Surveyors or Land Records and Maps to access historic and current land records and maps
If you find an existing survey, you should review it carefully and ensure it is accurate, up-to-date, and meets your needs. You should also check the date, signature, and seal of the surveyor who prepared the survey.
Step 2: Hire a licensed land surveyor
If you cannot find an existing survey or need a new one, you should hire a licensed land surveyor to perform the survey. A licensed land surveyor is a professional with the education, training, and experience to conduct land surveys per the laws and standards of New York. You can find a licensed land surveyor by:
- Asking for referrals from your real estate agent, attorney, or lender
- Searching online directories such as Google Business for local land surveyors
- Contacting the New York State Association of Professional Land Surveyors for a list of members
When you hire a land surveyor, you should:
- Request a written contract that specifies the scope, cost, and timeline of the survey
- Provide the surveyor with any relevant information or documents about the property
- Communicate your expectations and requirements clearly and frequently
- Review the survey report and map carefully, and ask questions if you have any doubts or concerns
Step 3: Use the survey for your purposes
Once you obtain the survey, you can use it for your purposes, such as:
- Completing the title transfer and closing process
- Applying for permits or approvals for construction or renovation
- Resolving any boundary or title issues or disputes
- Planning or improving the landscaping or drainage of the property
- Enhancing the value and marketability of the property
A property survey is a valuable tool to help you make informed decisions and protect your rights and interests as a property owner or buyer. By following these steps, you can obtain a property survey in New York easily and efficiently.
