Boundary survey vs detail survey: which question are you trying to answer?

A plan showing existing features and a survey addressing the position of a property boundary can look related, but they answer different questions. Before commissioning work, explain whether you need design information, clarification of a boundary or a proposed change to a boundary.

The right starting point is the intended use of the survey. A service name on its own does not establish the work included or whether the result is suitable for your purpose.

When the question is about site design

If your architect needs information about existing features and ground levels, discuss a detail and contour survey. Provide the design brief and ask which features, levels and adjoining information need to be recorded.

Do not assume that every detail survey includes the boundary investigation or marking needed for a separate boundary question. Ask the surveyor to explain the proposed scope, particularly where a design depends on the position of a boundary.

Our detail survey guide sets out the information to collect before booking.

When the question concerns existing boundaries or improvements

If you need to understand the relationship between existing improvements and boundaries, discuss the purpose of an identification survey. Explain the concern and who will use the information. If boundary definition or a registered plan is involved, ask the surveyor whether further work, such as a plan of redefinition, is appropriate.

The NSW Board of Surveying and Spatial Information advises that property-boundary surveys must be conducted or supervised by a registered land surveyor. You can use its registered-surveyor directory to check the professional responsible for boundary work.

Avoid treating a fence, an online map or an unassessed old drawing as a substitute for a survey of the question at hand. Send any existing documents to the surveyor for consideration, and describe what you need to establish.

When the intention is to change a boundary

A proposed boundary adjustment is a different enquiry from identifying where the current boundary lies. Tell the surveyor what change is proposed and provide the available title, plan and planning information. The appropriate process and approvals need to be assessed for the particular proposal.

If there is disagreement about ownership, access or rights, identify that issue and obtain appropriate advice. A survey provides evidence within its scope; it should not be assumed to settle every legal dispute.

Questions to ask before proceeding

• Am I asking about design information, an existing boundary or a proposed boundary change?
• Who needs the information, and for what decision?
• Does the quote include the boundary investigation or marking relevant to that purpose?
• What records and existing plans should I provide?
• What will be delivered, and what further advice might be required?

You do not need to diagnose the surveying method yourself. A short explanation of the problem is more useful than guessing a technical service name. Discuss the property and intended use with SurveyWorx so the appropriate service and scope can be considered.