Protecting Your Property: The Importance of a Boundary Survey
- Decker Land Surveying
- Mar 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 30

Why Knowing Your Property Boundaries Matters
Owning property is a major investment, but do you know exactly where your land begins and ends? Whether you’re a homeowner, real estate investor, or large landowner, understanding your property boundaries is crucial for avoiding disputes, preventing legal issues, and ensuring you get the most out of your land.
A boundary survey is a professional service that determines the exact size, shape, and legal limits of your property. Unfortunately, many landowners skip this step, assuming their deed or a rough estimate is enough. However, failing to get a survey can lead to costly mistakes, boundary disputes, and legal headaches.
Let’s explore why a boundary survey is essential, how the process works, and how Decker Land Surveying (DLS) can help protect your property.
What is a Boundary Survey?
A boundary survey is a detailed, professional measurement of your property lines conducted by a licensed land surveyor. This survey establishes the official boundaries of your land based on historical records, existing markers, and precise field measurements.
A boundary survey can help you:
✅ Define the exact corners and property lines of your land
✅ Identify encroachments (when a structure from one property extends onto another)
✅ Locate easements (legal rights allowing others to use part of your land, such as utility companies)
✅ Prevent disputes with neighbors over fences, driveways, or shared land
✅ Ensure compliance with zoning laws and building regulations
Without an accurate survey, you could unknowingly build on your neighbor’s land, violate zoning laws, or face expensive legal disputes.
Why a Boundary Survey is Essential for Landowners
1. Preventing Property Line Disputes
Many homeowners assume their fence, driveway, or landscaping sits within their property lines—until a neighbor challenges them. Without a survey, there’s no clear evidence of where your land legally begins and ends.
A boundary survey eliminates uncertainty and provides documented proof of your property’s limits. This can prevent disputes over shared fences, trees, or driveways—saving you from expensive legal battles and potential property value loss.
2. Identifying Encroachments & Easements
Your property may have hidden legal restrictions you aren’t aware of. A survey will identify:
Encroachments: If a neighbor has built a fence, shed, or driveway that extends onto your land.
Easements: Legal agreements allowing others to use part of your land for specific purposes, such as utility lines, road access, or drainage.
Understanding these limitations before making improvements or purchasing property can save you from unexpected restrictions and costly surprises.
3. Ensuring a Clear Title & Avoiding Legal Issues
A survey ensures your property’s legal description matches reality. It can uncover boundary disputes, errors in previous surveys, or unrecorded easements that could complicate a sale or development.
If you’re buying or selling property, lenders and title companies often require a survey to ensure there are no unresolved boundary issues that could affect ownership. Having a current survey can speed up transactions and prevent delays.
4. Meeting Legal Requirements for Building & Renovations
Planning to build a fence, addition, pool, or driveway? Many local governments require a certified boundary survey before issuing permits.
A survey ensures that your project follows zoning laws, setback requirements, and property regulations. This helps you avoid:
❌ Costly fines
❌ Project delays
❌ Being forced to remove or relocate structures built outside legal limits
Getting a survey before you build ensures that your investment is protected and legally compliant.
How Decker Land Surveying (DLS) Can Help
At Decker Land Surveying, we provide accurate and reliable boundary surveys for properties of all sizes. Whether for residential, commercial, or large-scale developments, our licensed surveyors utilize the latest surveying technology and procedures, to ensure legally accurate and clearly defined property boundaries.
Why Choose DLS?
✔ Licensed & Experienced – Skilled professionals with over 30 years of experience.
✔ Advanced Technology – Utilizing GPS and precision instruments for reliable measurements.
✔ Comprehensive Deliverables – Clear documentation of boundaries, encroachments, and easements.
✔ Risk Mitigation – Protect your property rights and prevent legal disputes.
Secure Your Property with a Boundary Survey Today
Don’t wait until there’s a problem—be proactive. Whether you're buying, selling, building, or simply want peace of mind, a boundary survey is one of the best investments you can make.
Contact Decker Land Surveying today to schedule your survey and ensure your property is protected, clearly defined, and legally sound.
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