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The Hidden Risks of Skipping a Survey
- Decker Land Surveying
- Sep 14
- 2 min read
Buying, selling, or developing property is a big investment — and skipping a survey can create problems that cost far more than the survey itself. At Decker Land Surveying, we’ve seen firsthand how the lack of proper surveying leads to disputes, delays, and expenses that could have been avoided.
Surveys do more than mark lines on the ground. They provide the clarity needed to make informed decisions. Without that clarity, property owners and developers are left exposed to risks they might not even realize until it’s too late.
Boundary Disputes and Encroachments
One of the most common issues we see comes from unclear property lines. Fences, driveways, and even buildings are sometimes placed in the wrong location. Without a proper boundary survey, neighbors can end up in costly disputes that strain relationships and drag into court. A survey up front helps prevent the problem before it starts.
Title and Legal Issues
Lenders, attorneys, and title companies often rely on surveys to confirm that property descriptions match the actual land on the ground. Skipping a survey can mean buying land with an outdated or inaccurate description — creating complications when it comes time to sell, refinance, or develop.
Zoning and Development Setbacks
Subdivision projects, new builds, and commercial sites all come with regulations on how land can be used. Skipping a survey can lead to violations of zoning rules or setback requirements, forcing redesigns, delays, or even removal of structures. A survey makes sure projects are planned and built correctly from the start.
Construction Delays and Added Costs
On a job site, time is money. If a project begins without a survey, mistakes in layout or overlooked easements can bring work to a halt. The cost of correcting those errors is almost always higher than doing the survey at the beginning.
A Smart Investment
At the end of the day, a survey is a small investment that protects a much larger one. It provides the confidence to move forward knowing that boundaries, legal descriptions, and regulations are clear. Skipping that step can open the door to risks that no property owner or developer wants to face.
At Decker Land Surveying, our goal is to give clients peace of mind. With more than 30 years of experience, we know how to identify potential issues before they turn into problems. A survey isn’t just paperwork — it’s protection.
Don’t Take the Risk
If you’re purchasing property, planning a subdivision, or starting a construction project, don’t leave it to chance. A survey today can prevent costly issues tomorrow.
Contact us today to see how we can guide your next project.