Should I get a survey

Question

Hi BP

Looking to purchase a duplex I have under contract. Do you typically purchase a survey when purchasing a new property? If so, what type and why?

I understand easements could be an issue, but my understanding is I would find out about these on title report.

Any feedback or personal experiences are appreciated.

Kerry Baird · Answer

Additionally to the response above, you want to see if there are any encroachments.  Our current house has a fence in the dog yard that runs across the neighbor's property.  Better to know this up front, so you don't buy a problem house.

I have a funny (to us) story: we bought our first house in England, while stationed over there with the Air Force.  Surveys in the UK go back to...nearly to God.  They are thick packets of paperwork, and show what Lord of the Manor owned it back when William the Conqueror came in, and gave it to what knight.

Anyway, behind our property was located a small RV campsite, which was only used in the summer months.  We received a legal document in the mail one day, stating the the RV campground wanted to renew their rental of the sewer line which ran across our property, for the equivalent of $10 for 10 years.  We thought we would ask for an increase, due to inflation and asked for $200.  A little while later, we heard back from their solicitor that they rejected our "rent" increase, and wanted to pay $10.

Since our agreement had terminated by that time, we talked with our next door neighbor.  Our neighbor, a plumber, proceeded to shut off the valve to their sewage, at the high point of the summer camping season.  When the campground returned to us, via their solicitor, our "rent" had increased significantly.  I don't recall the number, but it was several thousand British pounds, and the campground agreed to whatever number we set.

This isn't likely to happen, of course.  But let's just say, the excrement hit the rotational cooling device, and it worked in our favor.  LOL

Andrew Postell · Answer

@Sam Levine yes, get a survey.  If you are using a loan to purchase this property it is likely that a survey is required.  It might be possible that the owner has the survey.  And it is likely that you can negotiate in the contract that the owner pay for a survey if one is not provided.  If it is too late for that surveys are somewhere around $500 unless the lot is really big or something.  Ask the title company for a reputable surveyor and they should have some good suggestions.  Thanks!