Do I need a land survey before I buy a house?

I have a purchase contract for a house, and my lawyer has asked if I want to have a land survey done on it. Is it something that I should do? What could happen if I dont' have the survey done? The house pretty much sits in the middle of the property so it's not like that is encroaching.

Do I need a land survey before I buy a house?
If the property is larger than a city type lot, like several acres, and does not have clearly identified property markers, a survey is important (usually it's a lender requirement).


If it's a small lot, up to 1 ac. an ILC (Improvement Location Certificate) might be all you need, they usually cost around $200 where I am.


You might also check with local authorities such as assessor, zoning etc. to see if they have a survey or plat map on file and compare it to your property markers.
Reply:First, it depends on the state you are in. Most states in the south, for example Oklahoma and Texas, require that a survey be done and it is the responsibility usually of the buyer to pay for it, but you can negotiate your contract that the seller pay for it or split it with you. Normally they are less than $500 ...





It is always a good idea to have a survey done of your new property. You never know when you might need it ... if you ever decide to put in a fence or an outbuilding, you need to know where your property lines/boundaries are.
Reply:You did not say what country you are in, let alone where (?) but here are some general guidelines.





1) Is there a concern about it because of a known reason (exemptions in the title policy, easements, etc..)


2) Is there a condition at or near the fence lines that might be dangerous or encroaching (a tree about to fall down, or the neighbors (or your) house or structure built right up to the fence.


3) If there is a fence, does it accurately portray the boundary (if you have a four sided lot and the fence has 5 or 6 sides to it or wobbles back and forth, then something is wrong).


4) Do you WANT to build a fence


5) Are you planning on major or significant construction





and so on.





If not, ask the seller where the boundary line is on the property that they are selling, and document it (filming a walkaround is a great idea)).


..


ok? Hope that helps..





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Reply:I would get one. For a couple of hundred it's great piece of mind. A survey is not always about encroachment . . . you want to make sure you're getting the amount of land you thought you were.





Red . . . it sounds like she isn't working with a Realtor, but should be!
Reply:the land is described on the deed and at the tax office. You need not have it done for either title insurance or mortgage approval.


If you are content, skip it.
Reply:Because we don't know where you are, precisely I would not pay for something that isn't a requirement by city, county or state regulations or requirements in the US.
Reply:I have never heard of a lawyer asking if you want it done or not. It is always done regardless on the transactions I have closed.
Reply:If it's an average lot in the suburbs it's a waste of money.