Most residential properties already have fences installed on the land. One of the biggest misconceptions is that those fences align with the property’s real boundaries. In reality, fencing contractors often take a “close enough” approach to their work, meaning your fences may not reflect the true boundaries of your property.
This is why boundary surveys are very important, but what are the costs associated with this service? In this article, we’ll answer that question and dive into the cost and the specifics of boundary identification surveys.
Key Takeways
- Importance of Boundary Surveys: Boundary identification surveys accurately locate property boundaries, preventing disputes and ensuring compliance with regulations during construction or fencing projects.
- Cost Factors: The cost of fence surveying varies based on property size, complexity, and specific requirements. Obtaining a clear quote from a licensed surveyor is crucial.
- Council Approval: While most fences don’t require council approval, certain types, like pool fences or tall boundary fences, do. A boundary survey ensures your fence meets all local regulations.
What is a Boundary Identification Survey?
A boundary identification survey is a cadastral survey used to mark or re-establish property boundaries based on the original survey plan. Combining historical title research with modern measurement tools, surveyors can pinpoint exact boundaries and detect any encroachments.
It’s important to note that this survey doesn’t create or alter property interests; it simply identifies boundaries as per the original plans. Results are lodged with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, though they are typically not examined.
Boundary identification surveys are crucial for construction, renovation, and landscaping projects. Whether building a house, repairing a retaining wall, or erecting a fence, a boundary survey helps prevent and resolve neighbour disputes.
How Much is a Fence Survey?
The cost of fence surveying in Australia can vary depending on several factors, including the size and complexity of the property, the location, and the specific requirements of the survey.
However, more complex surveys, such as those involving large or irregularly shaped properties, encroachments, or detailed boundary disputes, can be more expensive. It’s important to obtain a clear quote from a licensed surveyor to understand the full scope and cost of the service before proceeding.
Why Should I Have My Boundary Surveyed?
Property features tend to move over the years. Shifts in the land, construction work, new easements and a blurring of neighbourly boundaries can make it difficult to know where your property begins and ends. If you’re unsure where the limits of your land are, a professional cadastral surveyor can assist with:
- Building and fencing work
- Building or maintaining retaining walls near boundaries
- Pre-purchase checks
- Resolving boundary and neighbourhood disputes
- Investigating easements, covenants and other interests on the land
Conducting a boundary survey is like taking out an insurance policy on your land. It will give you peace of mind that your boundaries are in the right location and can put an end to disputes with your neighbours.
Do I Need Council Approval to Build a Fence?
The answer to this question depends on your local council regulations, as well as the size and type of fence. If you live in Brisbane then you generally won’t need Council approval to build a fence. Under the Building Regulation 2006, you will need to seek approval from Brisbane City Council for two types of fences:
- Pool fences that are required to meet safety regulations
- Boundary fences that are taller than two metres above the natural ground surface
While most types of fences don’t require building approval, you will be responsible for ensuring the fence complies with the relevant standards. Your new fence needs to meet size limits, fire separation requirements, boundary setbacks and structural integrity guidelines.
Boundary Survey for Fence Building Projects
You normally won’t be required to engage a surveyor to build a fence on your residential property in Brisbane. However, building fences isn’t always straightforward, and neighbours often disagree over boundary locations and requirements for the project. In those cases, it’s a good idea to ask a professional surveyor for help.
A Boundary and Identification survey can locate the exact borders of your property and resolve any issues you’re having with your neighbours. Your surveyor will also identify secondary interests on the land such as easements, setbacks and fire separation requirements. Using that information, your surveyor will be able to stake out the correct location for your fence to ensure it complies with all local regulations.
Building a Fence and Need a Boundary Survey? Contact Sunrise Surveying Today!
Cadastral surveying is essential for all construction work. Whether installing a new fence or replacing an old one, a boundary survey ensures your project runs smoothly. For expert cadastral surveys, contact Sunrise Surveying.
Our experienced surveyors use state-of-the-art equipment to deliver precise data for your project. We accurately locate property boundaries, assess easements and setbacks, and stake out the correct location for your new fence. Contact us online for more information or to book an appointment with our team!
