Buying land

[Ashley W.]

Can someone please advise me of who would be the right person to hire to do a land inspection before purchase? Like a contractor would be hired to inspect a home, who inspects land and deems it ok to build on? Thanks!

[Robert Wilson]

You need to get a survey at a minimum... and a full topographical survey preferably. A survey will show you the property lines... and that information combined with the setbacks required and height limitations determined by your local zoning laws will tell you a great deal about what can be built on the property.

That said, a full topographical survey, is essential if you're in a low lying area because it also let's you know how high the grade is above sea level. Many municipalities will require you to build up to a minimum base level to build (In Tampa it's 9'6") to protect the structure from flood water. Building up with stem wall and fill dirt can be an expensive proposition, so if there is any doubt regarding the flood zone, get the full topo survey.

Hope that helps.