Masri Survey Group

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions Answered with Clarity

What is a land survey and why is it important?

A land survey is a detailed mapping of a property’s boundaries, features, and levels. It is essential for construction, development, and legal purposes, ensuring accurate positioning of structures and compliance with council or planning regulations. Land surveys help avoid costly disputes, confirm ownership, and provide critical information for design and decision-making. Whether you’re building a home, subdividing land, or purchasing property, a professional survey offers peace of mind and legal clarity. It forms the foundation of any successful project by ensuring every element is accurately positioned and documented according to local laws and site conditions.

When do I need a land survey?

A land survey is needed during property purchases, before construction, for subdivision, or when resolving boundary disputes. Councils often require surveys for development applications or final occupation certificates. Builders use surveys to ensure structures are placed correctly, while homeowners benefit when adding extensions, fences, or driveways near boundaries. Surveys are also essential for identifying easements, encroachments, or legal title concerns. If you’re unsure, consulting a registered surveyor will clarify whether a survey is necessary for your situation. Early surveying avoids delays, supports smoother planning, and helps prevent future legal or construction issues that may arise from inaccurate boundary assumptions.

What is a peg-out survey and why is it required?

A peg-out survey also known as set-out survey physically marks the exact location of proposed buildings or boundaries on-site using pegs or markers, based on approved plans. Builders use this information to correctly position footings, walls, and other structural elements during construction. Councils or certifiers may also require a peg-out to confirm the building sits within legal boundary setbacks. This type of survey helps avoid costly errors, boundary disputes, or compliance issues. It ensures your building project begins with accuracy and that everything is built in the right place, according to approved documentation and local planning regulations.

How long does a survey usually take?

The timeframe for a survey depends on the size and complexity of the site, the type of survey required, and how quickly access can be arranged. Most standard residential detail surveys are completed within a few days to a week, including site work and drafting. More complex projects like subdivisions, strata surveys, or those requiring council submissions may take longer due to additional documentation or approvals. Clients are always kept informed about expected timeframes. Prompt scheduling, site access, and clear instructions can help avoid delays and ensure a smooth, efficient process from fieldwork to delivery.

Are your surveys compliant with council and legal requirements?

Yes, all surveys are conducted by registered land surveyors and comply with relevant local council and state legislation. Survey plans are prepared in accordance with industry standards and legal frameworks to ensure they are accepted for development applications, certification, or registration. Whether you’re applying for a building permit, lodging a strata plan, or finalising a property sale, our surveys meet all compliance requirements. We stay up to date with regulatory changes and maintain the necessary certifications and professional standards to deliver accurate, approved, and legally sound documentation for every type of project or property.

How much does a land survey cost?

Survey costs vary depending on the type of service required, the size and complexity of the site, and the level of detail needed. A basic detail and level survey for a standard residential block is generally more affordable than a strata or subdivision plan, which involves more work and approvals. We provide clear, upfront quotes based on your specific needs, with no hidden fees. Investing in a professional survey helps avoid costly mistakes, delays, or disputes later. For accurate pricing, it’s best to contact us directly with your property details and the scope of work required.