Most homeowners install a fence based on what looks like the property line — an old fence, a hedgerow, a row of trees, or a worn path in the lawn. The problem is that those visible markers are almost never the legal boundary.
That assumption is responsible for some of the most common, and most expensive, neighbor disputes we see. A boundary survey performed before construction takes a few days and a known cost. Tearing out a fence on the wrong line costs many times more — both in labor and in goodwill with the neighbor.
What a boundary survey actually does
A boundary survey identifies the legal corners of your parcel based on recorded deeds, prior surveys, and physical evidence found on the ground. The result is a sealed survey map and written report showing exactly where your property begins and ends.
For a fence project, that means we set new iron stakes at every corner along the run, so your installer has a hard physical reference for every post.
When a survey isn't optional
- The fence is going on or near the property line
- Your municipality requires setback verification for a permit
- A neighbor has questioned the line in the past
- The previous fence (or any improvement) was installed without a survey
- You're planning to sell the property in the next few years
What it usually costs
A standard residential boundary survey in Mid-Michigan and Metro Detroit typically takes one to two field days plus office work, with turnaround in two to four weeks. We provide a fixed-fee quote after a brief review of the parcel — no surprises, no time-and-materials billing.
"Latitude caught a fence-line problem before we broke ground that would have cost us thousands. Wouldn't start a project without him." — Mark R., General Contractor
The bottom line
If you're about to install a fence — or any permanent improvement near a property edge — get the boundary surveyed first. It's the cheapest insurance you can buy on a residential project, and it sets you up to install with confidence.
Questions about a specific project? Send us the parcel address and we'll get you a quote within one business day.