A property survey is a drawing or map of a site showing its boundaries and other physical features. Survey reports also show the relative location of a house, shed, other building and fences on the property, and it usually includes the position of any public or municipal easements. Property surveys are done for a number of reasons, for example they may be required by local authorities such as council, or by the building designer prior to the commencement of any design work. Residential property surveys can be very simple or highly complex, and this is important to ensure you are aware of the requirements for your situation.

Sydesign generally require a site survey that:

• is conducted by a registered surveyor
• is drawn at a 1:100 scale
• shows true north to current offset from magnetic north
• shows reduced levels relative to Australian Height Datum (AHD)
• shows alignment and height of existing and adjoining buildings including ridge height, eaves, roof lines, windows and sill heights by survey
• shows spot levels across the site and adjoining properties
• shows significant vegetation on the site and council's footpath
• shows easements or restrictions on the title of the land
• shows adjacent public infrastructure, including footpath, kerb and gutter in streets or lanes, stormwater drainage pits and pipelines or creeks
• shows the location of the property boundaries, rock outcrops, driveways, fences, retaining walls, mean high water mark (where applicable).
• includes a survey of the boundary, if building within the vicinity of the boundary.
• nominates offsets on the survey plan, where walls exist and/or are proposed within 900mm of the boundary
• includes documentary evidence and a copy of the title giving evidence that the site can use the right of carriageway or easement, if the application relies on a right of carriageway or easement

Generally most of our clients require a detailed survey (see the above points) before any design work can commence.

Detailed surveys also referred to as cadastral land surveys are commonly used to re-establish boundaries when they are in dispute. This type of survey involves precise measuring and marking of your property, using prior markers if they can be found. Old land records may be examined to determine the location of original boundaries. These were usually marked with metal spikes or stakes in the ground, and may be difficult to locate after years of weather.

This type of survey is more expensive and must be done by a professional licensed surveyor in the state where the property is located.

Sydesign are able to assist in obtaining a quote and appointing a Surveyor on your behalf as part of our typical customer service.