When you want to make some alterations to your property that may be relatively close to its boundary, you need to be particularly accurate. This is especially important if you want to avoid any disputes with your neighbour and it may require you to take certain steps before construction begins. In this situation, you would do well to re-establish exactly where your boundary is, especially if it is not marked by any solid feature such as a wall. How should you go about this?
The Need For A Survey
In the case of any major construction, you will likely need planning permission from the local authority, and as part of this, you may need to engage a surveyor to confirm the details. If your construction is not particularly large or falls outside of local authority jurisdiction, it may, in any case, be a good idea to bring in a surveyor. For example, if you simply want to build a fence along an otherwise unrestricted border, don't assume you know where to dig but ask the experts instead.
Commission A Survey
In this situation, you can commission a boundary and identification survey. This is also known as a cadastral survey, where the boundary is identified, marked or re-established based on the original documentation. The technician will conduct a certain amount of historical title research but then use special equipment to show where the boundary is.
Reveal Other Potential Complications
This type of research should also identify any encroachments (from your side or your neighbours) and reveal any easements you may not be aware of. In some cases, you may have to modify your plans if a third party has some legal access to the land, which may be complicated by the construction of your fence.
Responsibility For The Job
Always remember that your new fence must meet any standards laid down by the authority, even if it does not need formal approval in itself. Fire separation rules may come into the equation, as may boundary setbacks, and you always need to ensure that the fence is structurally sound.
Commission The Work
To get the ball rolling, reach out to a land surveying team. They can help you gather the information you need so you can move forward with confidence. In this case, you will avoid any disputes with the neighbours, which may end up in a costly redesign of the job and unnecessary hassle.
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