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Regardless of whether you own a home or you are buying a home you should have a survey of the property. The survey report covers measurements, locations of buildings, lot and plan number and surveyor's certification, along with the property description. A survey also provides a visual map of the property
Here are 10 reasons why you need a survey :
1. Legal Boundary and property lines
Essential if you put up a fence, a pool, or even a driveway.
2. Easements, Rights of way
An Easement is a right to cross or otherwise use someone else's land for a specified purpose. Your neighbour may have access to a lake through your back yard
3. Encroachments
Where one property owner may violate the property rights of the neighbour by building on or extending a structure on to the neighbour's land or property - useful to know in case of disputes
4. Utility and municipal rights of way for Electric, Water, Gas lines, etc.
These agencies have right to use a portion of your property to maintain, construct or operate their equipment. It is also good to know the exact location of underground lines before any construction begins
5. Visible or surface ponds, rivers, creeks, lakes
Good to know especially if there is public access to waterfront, or if location of body of water may affect property lines
6. Improvements or additions on property (at time of survey)
A surveyor will certify that these are not in violation of laws and restrictions, (providing they are not).
7. Overlaps or Gaps
A boundary line certification stating there are no discrepancies between properties.
8. Cemeteries or family burial ground in your back yard.
Knowing the location can help avoid future issues
9. Access, Ingress (right to enter property), and Egress (right to exit property).
If your property is facing a road but has the garage at the other end, it doesn't necessarily follow that you have the right to drive in or out by entering and exiting from the front facing road.
10. Zoning Classification
You home is most likely zoned for residential use. Some zoning ordinances prohibit all in-home businesses in residential areas or placing mobile homes on the property
You can get a survey from the City of Toronto for a fee from the building department - if they have it on file. Alternatively you can obtain a new survey by contacting your local survey firm to obtain the services of a licensed Ontario Land Surveyor.
This list is for information purposes only. It is advisable to consult with a real estate attorney if you need help resolving an issue.