Building an extension on your property can create additional room to accommodate your growing family or allow extra space for activities that weren't possible before. Depending on the placement and size of the extension, it is possible for the structure to approach or surpass the previously set boundary line. If this happens and your neighbor lodges a complaint, your project may be halted, or you may even be forced to demolish a part of the structure.

Boundary line lawsuits as far as extensions are concerned rarely favor the builder as it is expected that a survey should have been carried out before construction. For this reason, it is essential that you understand circumstances that require undertaking a boundary survey to dispel any uncertainties concerning the set boundary.

When should you have a boundary survey?

A boundary survey is an essential step of every construction project. The surveyor clearly outlines the property boundary line as per the title deed, and this allows the architects and engineers to design a structure that remains within these boundaries. Although there are instances when a land survey may not be required, the following situations require that you hire a land surveyor before building an extension.

Building an extension on old property

If you want to build an extension on a property whose initial survey documents, maps, and other land-related documents aren't available, it is important that you undertake a boundary survey. This is particularly important if you have lived in the property for decades or even inherited it from your family. A land surveyor will acquire the original documents and indicate the boundary line before the construction process.

Building an extension after purchasing property

If you purchase a piece of property and wish to build an extension after sometime, a boundary survey may be essential. This is because, in most instances, property buyers pay attention to the building, assets, and landscaping rather than to the fine details of the property concerning the boundary. Before building an extension on such property, it is essential that a land surveyor defines the boundaries so that you don't end up building into your neighbor's property.

When is a land survey unnecessary?

You may have purchased a piece of land for construction and had it surveyed before the construction. If you intend to build an extension, a fence, or any other structure after a few years and are still in possession of the initial land survey documents, you may not need a land survey. Your project engineer should be able to ensure that the structure remains within the property as defined by the initial land surveyor.

If you are not sure of whether your extension will surpass the boundary line, it is important to hire a boundary surveyor. The process will be simple and fast, but it may save you from disputes with your neighbor.

Share