What is the difference between a survey and a plat?

Plat vs. Plats typically show the boundaries and dimensions of multiple parcels but do not include improvements or constructed features, like buildings. Surveys typically show the property with locations of ground features and improvements, such as buildings, fences, water features, and driveways.

Is a survey the same as a plot plan?

Many buyers ask me “What is the difference between a plot plan the builder gives me and a survey?” Simply put, a plot plan is what the building plan is for a plot of land, and asurvey is drawn to show what is actually on the plot of land.

What is the purpose of a survey plat?

A plat is an officially drawn map of a land area that defines the boundaries between different parcels of property to scale. A plat survey is used to create this map as accurately as possible. Generally, the divided sections of land are described in metes and bounds.

How are property lines determined when buying a property?

When the property is legally split, the new property lines are established in a survey. The property line at the front of your house is known as your frontage, the measured distance across the front of the plot you own. The property lines on the side of your plot are known as sidelines. Local zoning laws often dictate these distances.

How do I find the plat of my property line?

Search online for your property line Looking online for your property line might be one of the fastest ways to acquire property information today. Many counties and municipalities have plat maps on their Geographical Information System (GIS), accessible through the official county or assessor’s website.

What are property line markers made of?

Property line markers can be made of metal, wood, or concrete. For a relatively new home, the property boundary markers might still be in place. If you find survey pins or concrete boundary markers, they are likely to be more accurate, as wooden stakes are more easily moved. Check your plat map to see where to look for property line markers.