How do I determine which one I need?
In general, these two types of land surveys present a picture of a property for either boundary line determination or title and lending purposes. There are many different types of surveys, but boundary surveys and mortgage locations are most commonly seen by property owners when purchasing land and/or planning property improvements.
Boundary surveys and Mortgage Location Surveys (MLS) both bring incredible value. They do, however, have some pretty significant differences, particularly in terms of how they can be used. Knowing which type of survey you need and how to rely on them is critical to getting the most out of your land survey.
Mortgage Location Survey
When it comes to obtaining a mortgage and title insurance to purchase a new home, an MLS is typically required. It shows the property lines per the legal description and any recorded easements, right of ways, etc of which the surveyor is made aware and locates any and all improvements on the lot in relation to the property lines.
An MLS is not intended for a homeowner looking to put up a fence, install a pool, or build a shed. Rather, it is recommended, and generally required, that a boundary survey be completed prior to any building or improvement on a lot to ensure that construction does not cross onto a neighboring property.
Boundary Survey
A boundary survey is done by a crew of surveyors both in the field and the office, property corners are physically marked at the site, and lines are determined by surveyor calculation, not just by provided legal description as with the mortgage location survey. There is little to no margin of error on a boundary survey. Therefore, boundary surveys are beneficial in ensuring that you know exactly where your property lines are and where the building setback lines are so that you do not encroach on your neighbors property, or violate a building code which could be costly.
Which Land Survey Do I Need?
When deciding whether to order a survey, and determining which is necessary, it is important to think about what you plan on doing on the property. Are you planning on building a fence on one side? Maybe a new deck? If the work you are planning to do requires a permit, a boundary survey is the way to go. In addition to being necessary for permitting, a boundary survey also can help if you run into issues with your neighbors. Knowing exactly where your property lines are, and knowing your rights to build on your property, can extinguish any fires before they start.
If, on the other hand, you are planning to purchase property, and are in need of obtaining a mortgage and title insurance, a mortgage survey is the right product and your title company will coordinate that process for you. An MLS will identify any potential issues before you move forward with the purchase as well as give the lender peace of mind that their interest in the land is secure.
Both of these land surveys provide value. Still unsure of which one fits your current needs? That’s what we’re here for. With 50 years of experience in surveying in all 88 counties of Ohio, McSteen Land Surveyors is a leader in the industry. Contact us or order a survey and let our team of survey professionals take on your surveying needs.
