Canada is a beautiful country to settle in. If you have a good job and want to purchase a property, youโll find plenty of options here. You must consult a realtor and choose an option that fits your budget and family size. However, things arenโt simple because property buying has many responsibilities. One such responsibility is knowing your homeโs property lines.ย Knowing where your property begins and ends helps you avoid unpleasantries. But if youโre a first-time property buyer unaware of the importance of property lines, this article is for you.ย
Significance of Property Lines in Canada
It is generally the real estate agent’s job to explain property lines to their clients. While most realtors in Canada do that, some simply overlook it, and thatโs a warning sign. Donโt forget to ask your realtor about property lines if they fail to share those details with you. When you have a fair idea of your boundaries, the chances of disputes are fewer. It helps you prevent disagreements with neighbours, especially those that could lead to legal troubles. Property buying is a lengthy process; a dispute is the last thing you want to add to the list. Not being aware and installing something to your property that isnโt within your boundary may also result in a financial loss.
Even while applying for a loan, the lender or insurance company asks forย property lines in Canada. They must create agreement terms and require mentioning property line details there. So, ensure you have the details when you visit the property. Knowing exactly what you are getting (area-wise) simplifies property buying.
How to Locate Your Property Lines?
There are multiple ways to find your property lines. These include:
Look for Markers
Most properties, especially new ones, tend to have property line markers. Unless you specifically look out for them, these markers wonโt be visible as soon as you enter the property. These markers may be in the form of stakes stuck to the ground. Once you spot them, you only have to follow them to find the boundaries.
Check the Map or Plat of your Property
Does your realtor have a cadastral map of the property youโre interested in buying? If so, you can check that to find property lines. A plot highlights your property’s boundaries and your neighbourโs so you can easily examine where your property begins and ends. If the realtor does not have the property plat, ask them to arrange it for you. It is a part of your propertyโs paperwork; you can also access it online or from your assessor.
Go Through Your Property Deed
As you may already know, a property deed is a legal document. It contains a word-by-word description of the entire property, including the property lines. However, if your act does not specify such details, you may have to refer to or look for an old deed of that property. Remember, an old deed may have features, landmarks and details that no longer exist. You will have to verify everything with the realtor or the previous owner.ย
Reach Out to a Surveyor
Contact a surveyor for an updated and precise report of your property boundaries. The surveyor will be able to find out even if thereโs a minor encroachment on your or your neighbourโs end. Once you have the report, deciding whether you wish to buy the property is up to you. If the encroachment is on the neighbour’s end, you can file a suit or directly discuss it with them.
Building a Fence on the Property Boundaries
After learning about property lines, one of the first things people ask is to build a fence on the property line. The answer is yes. You and your neighbour can build a fence on the property lines provided; you follow the necessary rules and regulations. In the case of Canadian property, these rules can be jurisdiction laws or deed restrictions.ย A general rule is that the fence should be built 2-8 inches from the neighbourโs property line. Experts advise not building fences directly on the property line, which leads to equal responsibility for the fence for both parties. And by responsibilities, they mean regular upkeep and costs. If you like building a fence but are unsure where to begin, consult a realtor. A professional real estate lawyer will provide the right suggestions within the specific laws and regulations.
Deciding Your Property Lines
Happy neighbours make for a happy household. One way to ensure that you have a good relationship with your neighbours is by deciding your property lines. Yes, thatโs possible. Thereโs nothing wrong with agreeing on where your property lines are. It is a great way to avoid future disputes and problems. You can do this by hiring a land surveyor. Have the professional surveyor determine the exact property lines. Once determined, discuss the same with your neighbours and see if they have any concerns. If they do, address them and see if you can modify the property lines to their satisfaction. The key is to make things easy to avoid complications in the future. Let the neighbours know if you donโt have any fences yet but plan to get them built later. Ask your neighbours if they have similar plans, too.ย
After discussing everything, sign an agreement and stick to the decided property boundaries.ย
In a Nutshell
Being aware of your property lines allows you to ensure a healthy relationship with your neighbors. It helps you prevent getting into unwanted disputes or problems.ย If you are unsure of where your property lines are, follow the tips mentioned above or use an online resource. You may also consult a real estate agent to understand accurate property lines and boundaries better.ย Confirm the exact boundaries before buying a property. This way, if you plan on installing a fence, swimming pool, or other features on the property, you wonโt violate any boundary issues or laws.
You May Also Read :
|
Guide To Maximize ROI For Rental Property |
|
|
How To Buy a Leasehold Property in Canada |
|
|
What is Prohibition Act in Canada |
|
|
All About Toronto Property Tax |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It is an invisible line that markets the boundaries of a property. It helps identify the beginning and end of a property, so you know exactly what portion of the property belongs to you. Connect with an experienced land surveyor to determine your property lines.
When your neighbour builds something on your property, it is called encroachment. You can check it through a survey plan. And for that, youโll have to hire a professional surveyor and have him create a survey report.
Many homeowners think that property boundaries are not an issue if the plan is to sell the property. This is wrong. If your property already has such an issue, you should resolve it before selling the property. Fixing it now is better than getting into trouble for it later and paying penalties.
Yes, you can locate your property virtually. There are various real estate tools and websites for it. If not, you can use Google Maps on your tab, mobile or desktop. Mention the property address in the search bar, hit search and zoom (+) into your property for the boundaries to appear.
You can use the government of Canada's free online mapping tool to find your property line. The tool lets you search for your address and view your property line boundaries.
Landguide is one of the most popular app for property lines in Canada.
Answer 3. You can contact your local municipal office or the Land Registry Office to find your property lines for free in Ontario. Both offices will have access to the survey plan for your property and can provide you with information about the exact boundaries of your property. You may also access the survey plan online through the Land Registry Officeโs website.
The cost of a land survey in Canada can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, as well as the region. The average cost for a residential land survey in Canada is between $500 and $1,500 and can also range upto $6,000 for bigger properties in the country.
Yes, many apps in Canada show property lines.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has an app called 'My Land Information' which allows you to view and assess property boundaries in Ontario. It is available for free download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. What does a property line mean?
How can I check if my neighbour has built something on my property?
Can I sell a property without resolving the boundary issues?
Can I see my property lines online?
How to find your property line for free in Canada?
What is the app for property lines in Canada?
How do I find my property lines for free in Ontario?
How much does a land survey cost in Canada?
Is there an app that shows property lines in Canada?
What is the app for property lines in Ontario?
