Introduction
Knowing the boundaries and exact measurements of your property can be incredibly helpful for a number of reasons, such as adding a fence, creating a garden, or starting a construction project. Fortunately, finding a survey of your property has never been easier, thanks to the internet. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of strategies that you can use to locate a survey of your property online.
Search the County Assessor’s Website
The first place to start your search is the county assessor’s website in your area. The county assessor’s office is responsible for assessing and valuing properties for tax purposes, and they should have a record of all surveys in the area.
To locate your county assessor’s office, simply search for “county assessor [your county name]” in your preferred search engine. This should bring up a link to the office’s website. Once you’re on the website, look for a property search tool or GIS (Geographic Information System) map that allows you to find your property. Enter your property’s address, and you should be able to access information regarding your property, including the survey information.
It’s important to note that the survey information you find may be in legal jargon that can be difficult to understand. If you’re having trouble interpreting the information, seek help from a professional land surveyor.
Use a Property Research Website
If you’re having trouble locating the survey information on your county assessor’s website, you can try using a property research website. These websites offer a range of information on properties, including surveys, property value estimates, and ownership information. Some of the most popular property research websites include Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com.
To find your survey information on these websites, simply search for your property’s address or location using the website’s search bar. This should bring up a listing for your property, which you can select to access more information, including the survey.
Just like with the county assessor’s website, the survey information may be difficult to interpret without the assistance of a land surveyor.
Check with Your Mortgage or Title Company
If you’ve financed your property or purchased title insurance, your mortgage or title company may have a copy of the survey on file. Contact your mortgage or title company and ask for assistance in accessing this information. They should be able to provide you with a copy of the survey or direct you to where you can find it online.
It’s a good idea to keep a copy of your survey on file, especially if you plan on making any significant changes to your property in the future.
Check with the City or County Land Office
In addition to the county assessor’s website, your city or county land office may also have survey information on file. The land office is the department that manages information on land and property in your area and should have a record of any surveys that have been completed.
To find your city or county land office, simply search for “city/county land office [your location]” in your preferred search engine. This should bring up a link to the office’s website. Once you’re on the website, look for a property search tool or map that allows you to find your property. Enter your property’s address, and you should be able to access information regarding your property, including the survey information.
Search Online Mapping Services
In addition to the county assessor’s website and property research websites, online mapping services are another useful tool for locating survey information. Some of the most popular online mapping services include Google Maps, Bing Maps, and MapQuest.
To use these mapping services, simply search for your property’s address or location on the website’s search bar. Once you’ve located your property on the map, click on it to access more information, including the survey.
It’s important to note that the survey information you find on online mapping services may not be as detailed or accurate as the information you can find through a land surveyor.
Online Public Records Databases
If you’re having trouble locating survey information through the previous strategies, there are several public records databases that you can use. The National Archives, Public Library of Congress, and Bureau of Land Management all offer online databases that house a range of public records, including surveys.
To find your survey information on these websites, simply search for “National Archives,” “Public Library of Congress,” or “Bureau of Land Management” on your preferred search engine. Once you’re on the website, look for a search tool that allows you to find your property’s survey information. Enter your property’s location, and you should be able to access the relevant information.
Just like with the previous strategies, it’s important to note that you may need a land surveyor’s assistance in interpreting the survey information you find on these databases.
Hire a Land Surveyor
If you’re having trouble locating your property’s survey information online, or if you need a more detailed or accurate survey, you may need to hire a land surveyor. Land surveyors are professionals who specialize in creating maps and measurements of land, and they can provide you with an accurate survey of your property.
To find a land surveyor in your area, search for “land surveyor [your location]” on your preferred search engine. Look for surveyors with good reviews and credentials. The cost of hiring a land surveyor can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the survey.
Conclusion
Locating a survey of your property online has never been easier, thanks to the variety of strategies available. Whether you use a county assessor’s website, a property research website, your mortgage or title company, the city or county land office, online mapping services, public records databases, or a professional land surveyor, you should be able to find the information you need.
Remember to keep a copy of your survey on file, especially if you plan on making any significant changes to your property in the future. If you’re having trouble interpreting the survey information you find, don’t hesitate to seek the assistance of a professional land surveyor.
