Short Answer
A home survey is a professional measurement of the property's boundaries, showing where the house and other structures sit relative to the property lines. You typically need one to confirm there are no encroachments, easements, or boundary disputes. In New Jersey, lenders often require a survey as part of the title insurance process. A survey costs $400 to $1,000 depending on the property size and complexity.
A property survey is a detailed drawing that shows the legal boundaries of your lot, the location of the house and other structures, easements, rights of way, and any encroachments. An encroachment occurs when a neighbor's fence, driveway, or structure extends onto your property, or vice versa. Easements give third parties the right to use part of your property for utilities, drainage, or access. A survey protects you by ensuring you know exactly what you are buying. Without a survey, you might not realize that the fence you thought was the property line is actually two feet onto your neighbor's land, or that a utility company has the right to run power lines across your backyard. In New Jersey, surveys are commonly required by title companies and lenders. If you are paying cash, a survey is still recommended to protect your investment. Boundary disputes can be expensive and stressful to resolve, and a survey is cheap insurance.
Bob's Advice
Redfin Senior Agent · AI Certified Agent
I always recommend getting a survey. I have seen too many situations where a buyer assumed the fence was the property line, only to discover later that they owned less land than they thought. A survey is a small investment for peace of mind. If the survey reveals an issue, we can address it before closing. I will help you understand the survey results and what they mean for your property. It is one of those things you do not need until you really need it.
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