When you’re buying, building, refinancing, or developing property, a land survey is one of the most important steps in protecting your investment. It defines legal boundaries, identifies risks early, and helps ensure transactions and projects move forward without costly surprises.
McSteen delivers fast, accurate land surveying services statewide, supporting title companies, lenders, builders, and property owners across Ohio and Indiana.
Fast turnaround across Ohio & Indiana | No obligation
What Is a Land Survey?
A land survey is a detailed professional assessment that determines a property’s legal boundaries and maps key physical features using legal records, fieldwork, and precise measurements.
A typical land survey shows:
- Property lines based on the legal description
- Structures such as homes, garages, and fences
- Easements and rights-of-way
- Encroachments or boundary conflicts
Surveyors follow a structured process: researching public records, conducting field observations, processing data with calculations, and delivering a certified plat after final review. Modern tools like GPS, total stations, and drones ensure pinpoint accuracy even on challenging terrain.
Why Land Surveys Matter for Real Estate and Construction
Land surveys minimize risks in real estate and construction by revealing issues before they escalate. They enable:
- Title companies to issue policies with fewer exceptions
- Lenders to approve financing confidently
- Buyers to avoid post-closing disputes
- Builders to meet zoning setbacks and compliance
Without one, undiscovered problems like encroachments may not be covered by title insurance, leading to costly fixes later.
Read more on Easements, Right-of-Ways, and Setbacks: How Surveys Prevent Legal Issues in Ohio and Indiana
Types of Land Surveys in Ohio & Indiana
There are different types of land surveys and the type of land survey needed will depend on what type of information is required about the property.
Boundary Survey
Determines exact property lines using legal records and fieldwork
Best for: Property disputes, fencing, additions, land development
Mortgage Location Survey / Surveyor Location Report – SLR
A cost-effective survey showing visible improvements and boundary relationships
Best for: Real estate closings, refinancing, title insurance
ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey
A detailed, standardized survey used in commercial transactions
Best for: Developers, lenders, and commercial real estate
When Do You Need a Land Survey?
You’ll likely need a survey if you are:
- Buying or selling property
- Refinancing a home or commercial building
- Applying for title insurance
- Building, expanding, or adding structures
- Resolving a boundary or encroachment issue
- Subdividing or developing land
In Ohio and Indiana, Mortgage Location Surveys and SLRs are commonly required for residential transactions.
Learn Why Every Real Estate Transfer Should Have a Survey
How Much Does a Land Survey Cost?
Costs vary by property specifics:
- Size, shape, and terrain
- Survey type and research needs
- Access and record availability
Mortgage Location/SLRs are typically the most affordable and quickest. Boundary/ALTA surveys cost more due to detailed fieldwork.
Contact McSteen for a free custom quote tailored to your property.
How Long Does a Land Survey Take?
Turnaround time depends on survey type and site conditions.
- Location Surveys: Often completed in 3–5 business days.
- Boundary Surveys: Involve more detailed research and field data collection, which may take longer than a standard location survey.
- ALTA Surveys: Timeline depends on property complexity and availability of existing records—order early during due diligence to avoid closing delays.
McSteen prioritizes speed to support tight real estate transactions and construction schedules.
What Does a Land Survey Show?
A professional survey provides a clear, detailed snapshot of a property, including:
- Legal property boundaries
- Buildings and improvements
- Easements and access points
- Encroachments or conflicts
- Setback compliance
This ensures buyers, lenders, and builders can make informed decisions.
Check out our series of guides on how to read land surveys:
Land Surveying Services in Ohio & Indiana
With 50+ years of experience, McSteen covers all 88 Ohio counties and all 92 Indiana counties, using advanced tech for dependable results.
We serve title companies, banks, developers, builders, and homeowners with responsive, expert service. Our team combines local expertise, modern surveying technology, and responsive service to deliver accurate results—fast.
Request a Land Survey Today
Whether you’re closing on a property, planning construction, or resolving a boundary issue, McSteen makes the process simple.
- Fast turnaround times
- Accurate, reliable surveys
- Trusted across Ohio and Indiana
Request a quote today and keep your project moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a land survey to buy a house?
Not always—but most lenders and title companies require a Mortgage Location Survey or SLR to issue title insurance with fewer exceptions.
What’s the difference between a boundary survey and an Mortgage Location/SLR?
A boundary survey establishes exact legal property lines. A Mortgage Location/SLR shows visible improvements and boundary relationships for transaction purposes.
Can a land survey delay closing?
It can if issues are discovered, but identifying problems early helps avoid larger delays and legal complications.
How do I order a land survey in Ohio or Indiana?
You can request a quote directly from McSteen or coordinate through your title company or lender.