Summary: Not all property surveys are the same. Learn the differences between a Deed Sketch, Surveyor Location Report (SLR), and Boundary Survey in Indiana — including cost, site visits, and when each is required for closings, construction, or legal disputes. Choose the right survey to protect your investment and avoid costly delays.
Property is an investment. Ensure it’s protected with the right survey data.
Not all “surveys” are the same and choosing the right one can save time, money, and major headaches.
If you’re closing a real estate transaction, planning construction, or resolving a property dispute in Indiana, it’s important to understand the differences between:
- Deed Sketch (Aerial Overlay)
- Surveyor Location Report (SLR)
- Full Boundary Survey
Here’s how each service compares — and when to use them.
1. Deed Sketch (Aerial Overlay)
Primary Purpose
A visualization tool used for preliminary due diligence and deed interpretation.
Site Visit Required?
No. This is entirely desk-based research.
What It Includes
- Visual mapping of metes and bounds descriptions
- Interpretation of complex legal descriptions
- Identification of recorded easements and setbacks
- Comparison of deed language to aerial imagery
Key Benefits
- Helps confirm the deed “matches” the aerial view
- Identifies record encumbrances early
- Useful for quick internal reviews
Best Used For
- Early-stage property review
- Visual confirmation of deed descriptions
- Preliminary due diligence
Limitations
- Not a Boundary Survey
- No boundary guarantees
- No site visit
- No field-located improvements
Starting Investment
Approximately $150
A Deed Sketch is ideal when you need a fast, visual understanding of what’s described on paper — but it does not verify physical boundary accuracy.
2. Surveyor Location Report (SLR)
Primary Purpose
Real estate transfers and title requirements.
Site Visit Required?
Yes. A field crew locates visible improvements.
What It Includes
- Field location of house, garage, fences, and visible improvements
- Boundaries shown per the provided legal description
- Identification of visible encroachments
- Reviewed and signed by a Licensed Surveyor
Key Benefits
- Ensures the buyer is receiving what’s expected
- Shows relationship between improvements and deeded property
- Supports lender and title underwriting requirements
- Faster turnaround than a full Boundary Survey
Best Used For
- Property transfers
- Residential closings
- Lender and title insurance requirements
Limitations
- Not a Boundary Survey
- Boundaries are based on the deed provided by title
- No independent boundary calculations performed
Typical Investment
Approximately $230–$425
An SLR is the go-to product for Indiana real estate transactions. It provides essential information for closing — without the scope or cost of a full boundary determination.
3. Full Boundary Survey
Primary Purpose
Definitive boundary determination for construction, improvements, and legal matters.
Site Visit Required?
Yes. Comprehensive field data collection.
What It Includes
- Independent boundary calculations
- Legal research and analysis
- Highly accurate measurements
- Court-defensible documentation
- Professional surveyor certification
Key Benefits
- Gold standard for boundary accuracy
- Required for new construction, additions, fences, and pools
- Essential for resolving neighbor disputes
- Backed by surveyor research and calculations
Best Used For
- Fence installations
- New construction
- Additions and pools
- Lot splits
- Boundary disputes
Considerations
- Higher investment
- Longer turnaround time due to depth of research
Starting Investment
$1,500+
A Boundary Survey is the only option when you need legally defensible, precise boundary determination.
How to Choose the Right Survey
Ask yourself:
- Are you closing on a property? → SLR
- Are you installing a fence or building an addition? → Boundary Survey
- Do you just need a quick visual of the deed description? → Deed Sketch
- Are you resolving a dispute? → Boundary Survey
Choosing the correct service protects your timeline, budget, and legal standing.
Why It Matters for Indiana Property Owners
Indiana Administrative Code outlines requirements for Surveyor Location Reports used in residential loan policies. These reports are specifically designed for title insurance purposes and are not intended for construction or boundary disputes.
That’s why working with an experienced, licensed surveyor is critical. The wrong survey type can delay closings, create legal exposure, or require costly rework.
The McSteen Difference
For more than 50 years, McSteen has supported lenders, title teams, builders, and property owners with:
- Fast turnaround times
- Technology-enabled services
- Licensed, experienced survey professionals
- Clear communication and proactive issue identification
We proudly serve Indiana and all of Ohio.
Empowering lenders, title teams, and property owners to move forward with confidence.
Ready to Protect Your Investment?
If you’re unsure which survey product fits your timeline or transaction, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a free quote.