Can You Close on a House Without a Survey?

Surveys are a tool to help buyers understand the exact boundaries of their property. While it is always recommended to have a survey if there is any suspicion of encroachments or unclear property lines, a survey is not strictly required to close on a house. However, the answer can vary depending on the nature of the house and the state in which it is located.

Understanding Property Boundaries

Property lines are critical to understand because they define the limits of a parcel of land. A survey helps ensure that the boundaries of the property are accurately marked and that there are no encroachments from neighboring properties. This is especially important if the property involves any disputed territory or unusual legal descriptions.

When a Survey Is Necessary

In many cases, a survey is not necessary to close on a house, particularly if the property is in a typical suburban area. Most suburban properties use lot plans, which usually clearly define the boundaries of the property. Therefore, in the absence of any suspicious encroachments, a lot plan alone might suffice.

State-Specific Requirements

However, some states have more stringent requirements concerning property surveys. In jurisdictions where there are common issues with property encroachments, such as Texas, Florida, and New Mexico, surveys might be requested more often. It is essential to check the specific laws or local real estate practices in the state where the property is located.

Checking Before Buying

To avoid any unforeseen issues, buyers should always determine the survey requirements for the property they want to purchase. This involves checking the following:

Legal Description of the Property: If the property description is a metes and bounds description (specifically detailing the boundaries of a property based on fixed points and directions), a survey might be required to ensure accuracy. Local Real Estate Practices: Even if a survey is not legally required, regional customs or specific neighborhood regulations might necessitate one. Insurance and Lender Requirements: Some lenders and insurance companies might require a survey before finalizing the transaction or providing coverage.

By understanding these aspects, buyers can make an informed decision about whether a survey is necessary for their particular situation. It is always better to err on the side of caution and ensure that all boundaries are correctly established to avoid potential legal disputes or financial losses later.

Ultimately, while a survey is not strictly required to close on a house, it is a nonetheless significant step in purchasing a property. Whether you choose to proceed without a survey or opt to have one performed depends on the specific circumstances of your property and local real estate practices.