Boundary Survey vs Property Survey — What is the Difference?

If you are a homeowner in Toronto or across the Greater Toronto Area you have probably heard both terms — boundary survey and property survey. Many people use them interchangeably but they are actually different survey types that serve different purposes. This guide explains the key differences and helps you determine which one you need for your specific situation.

What Is a Boundary Survey?

A boundary survey — sometimes called a boundary line survey or lot line survey — focuses specifically on locating determining and marking the legal boundaries of your property. The primary purpose is to establish exactly where your property begins and ends relative to neighbouring properties roads and other features.

A boundary survey is typically the right choice when you need to know exactly where your property lines are located — for example before installing a fence resolving a neighbour dispute or confirming the extent of your lot.

What Does a Boundary Survey Include?

• Precise location of all property corners and boundaries
• Installation or restoration of survey monuments at property corners
• Lot dimensions and bearings
• Legal description verification
• Documentation of any boundary encroachments found
• Certified survey plan showing property boundaries

What Is a Property Survey?

A property survey — sometimes called a survey of property or real property report — is a more comprehensive document that goes beyond just the boundaries. In addition to documenting your property lines a property survey also shows all existing structures on the lot their locations relative to the boundaries and any other features that affect the property.

A property survey is typically required for real estate transactions mortgage applications and situations where a complete picture of the property is needed including all structures encroachments and easements.

What Does a Property Survey Include?

• All property boundaries and lot dimensions
• Location of all structures relative to property lines
• Setback distances from structures to boundaries
• Easements and rights-of-way affecting the property
• Encroachments from neighbouring properties
• Driveways fences and other improvements
• Legal description of the property
• Certified survey plan to Ontario standards

Boundary Survey vs Property Survey — Side by Side Comparison

Which Survey Do You Need?

Choosing between a boundary survey and a property survey depends entirely on your specific situation and what you plan to use the survey for. Here is a simple guide to help you decide.

Choose a Boundary Survey if you need to:

• Install a fence along your property line
• Resolve a boundary dispute with a neighbour
• Confirm where your property lines are located
• Re-establish lost or destroyed survey monuments
• Determine how much of a neighbour’s structure encroaches on your land

Choose a Property Survey if you need to:

• Buy or sell a property in the GTA
• Apply for a mortgage or refinance your home
• Provide documentation to a real estate lawyer
• Confirm all structures comply with zoning setbacks
• Identify all easements affecting your property
• Plan a major renovation or addition

Boundary Survey and Property Survey Costs in the GTA

Both boundary surveys and property surveys are available across all GTA municipalities. The cost varies depending on your property size location and the complexity of your specific situation. The fastest way to get your exact price is to use our instant online quote tool — just enter your property address and get a transparent price in under 10 seconds with no hidden fees.

How Long Do These Surveys Take in the GTA?

Both boundary surveys and property surveys in the GTA are typically completed and delivered within 5 to 10 business days from the time you place your order. Our team services all GTA municipalities including Toronto Mississauga Brampton Markham Vaughan Richmond Hill Oakville Burlington and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a boundary survey the same as a property survey?

No — a boundary survey focuses only on locating and marking your property lines while a property survey is more comprehensive and documents boundaries plus all structures easements and encroachments on your lot. They serve different purposes and are used in different situations.

Which survey do I need for selling my house in Ontario?

For selling a house in Ontario you typically need a property survey — not just a boundary survey. Your real estate lawyer and the buyer’s lender will want a complete survey showing the property boundaries all structures easements and encroachments. A boundary survey alone is generally not sufficient for a real estate transaction.

Can I use an old boundary survey for my property?

An existing boundary survey may be acceptable in some situations depending on how old it is and whether any changes have been made to the property since it was completed. However if you are planning construction or a real estate transaction a current survey is almost always recommended.

How do I get a boundary or property survey in the GTA?

Getting started is simple — use our instant quote tool to get your exact price in under 10 seconds call us at +1 (647) 467-1264 or fill out our contact form. Tell us your property address and which survey you need and our experienced team will take care of everything from there.