Property surveys are an essential tool for landowners, developers, and municipalities. They provide crucial information about the land that can prevent potential legal, financial, and development issues.
At Meridian Surveys, we have extensive experience in uncovering and addressing common problems during property surveys. Here are some issues frequently detected and why they should be rectified promptly.
1. Boundary Discrepancies
A boundary discrepancy is one of the most common issues uncovered during a property survey, and this occurs when the actual physical boundaries of a property differ from the legal descriptions in the deed. These discrepancies can lead to disputes with neighbors and may impact property values, as well as get you in trouble with local bylaw enforcement should the boundary violation get elevated to civil court.
2. Encroachments
Encroachments occur when a structure or part of a structure on one property illegally extends onto an adjoining property. This can include fences, driveways, buildings, and any construction that overhangs onto another property- think an improperly scoped garage addition or home extension. Encroachments can lead to legal battles and may require costly adjustments or removals if your initial construction is non-compliant.
3. Zoning Violations
Zoning regulations dictate how land can be used and what structures can be built, and these regulations vary from city to city. During a property survey, it’s not uncommon to find that certain uses or structures on a property do not comply with local zoning laws or contravene updated legislation. Zoning violations can halt development projects and result in fines or legal actions. In absolute worst-case scenarios, this may even result in your permits and planning approval being rescinded.
4. Undisclosed Easements/Right-of-Way Issues
Easements grant others the right to use a portion of your property for a specific purpose, such as utility lines or access roads. These can often go undisclosed until a survey is conducted, and private vs. public use boundaries are not always known by current developers, owners, and tenants. Easements can limit how you can use parts of your property and may affect its value if ordinances haven’t been obeyed.
5. Title Issues
Property surveys often reveal title issues, such as gaps in the chain of ownership or unresolved liens that don’t always get caught during the sale of land. These issues can complicate or delay the sale of a property and may lead to legal disputes.
6. Environmental Concerns
Surveys can also uncover environmental issues, such as contamination or the presence of protected wetlands. If not caught early in the sale and transfer process, these concerns can significantly impact development plans and property values. Identifying environmental problems early allows for proper mitigation and compliance with environmental regulations.
Why Choose Meridian Surveys?
The team at Meridian Surveys is committed to providing comprehensive and accurate property surveys to help you identify and resolve these common issues. Here’s why we’re the best choice for surveying services:
- Safety First: Meridian prioritizes safety, ensuring a secure environment for our workers and your property. We adhere to strict safety protocols to protect everyone involved, every time.
- Expertise and Technology: Meridian utilizes industry-leading technology, including RTK GPS systems, Robotic Total Stations, LIDAR payloads, and bathymetric equipment for underwater surveying. Our advanced tools enable us to deliver precise and reliable results.
- Versatility: Meridian takes on projects of all sizes, from small land mapping to large commercial developments. Our team’s versatility and expertise ensure we can handle any surveying challenge.
- Local Knowledge: With offices across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, we have deep local knowledge that enhances the accuracy and relevance of our surveys. Our local crews are familiar with regional regulations and conditions, ensuring top-notch service.
Contact Meridian Surveys Today
Property surveys are essential for uncovering and addressing issues that could affect your land’s value, development potential, and legal standing- BEFORE they become a problem for you and your planning.
At Meridian Surveys, we provide the expertise and technology needed to identify these problems early and accurately. Trust us to help protect your investment and ensure the success of your projects. Visit Meridian Surveys today to learn more about our services.