The Importance and Legal Requirements of Site Surveys for Residential Properties in Brisbane

When it comes to residential properties in Brisbane, site surveys play a crucial role in ensuring accurate information about the land, boundaries, and existing structures. These surveys are not only important for the property owners but also for developers, architects, and local authorities involved in construction and planning processes. In this article, we will explore the significance of site surveys and the legal requirements associated with them in Brisbane.

Identification Survey

The identification survey is the initial step in understanding the boundaries and features of a residential property. Here are the key components and deliverables of an identification survey:

Typical Inclusions:

1. Research historical survey data and acquire relevant plans: Surveyors gather existing survey data and pertinent plans to gain insights into the property’s history and previous boundaries.
2. Locate relevant survey markers: Boundaries are identified and marked by surveyors using appropriate markers such as pegs, screws, or nails.
3. Determine the location of improvements on or near boundaries: Surveyors identify any improvements, such as retaining walls, that are situated on or in close proximity to the property boundaries. All relevant parties are notified in accordance with the Surveying and Mapping Infrastructure Regulation 2014.
4. Prepare an identification survey plan: The surveyor prepares a comprehensive identification survey plan in compliance with the latest version of the Cadastral Survey Requirements, the Surveying and Mapping Infrastructure Act 2003, the Surveyor Act 2003, and corresponding regulations.

Typical Deliverables:

1. Clearly marked property boundaries: The surveyor ensures that the property boundaries are physically marked for enhanced clarity.
2. PDF copy of the Identification Survey: A detailed report outlining the survey findings is prepared and provided to the client within 30-40 business days after the completion of field work.

Typical Exclusions:

1. Easement boundaries are not pegged: The identification survey does not involve pegging easement boundaries.
2. Proposal Plan and Subdivision Plan: These specific plans are not included in the identification survey.

Contour and Detail Survey

A contour and detail survey provides critical information about the existing features, services, and levels of a property. Let’s explore the key components and deliverables of this type of survey:

Typical Inclusions:

1. Conduct research using Dial Before You Dig (DBYD) and local government databases: This step ensures the identification of existing services, such as gas, water, electricity, and telecommunication lines that may impact the property.
2. Establish Australian Height Datum (AHD) and provide benchmarks: Surveyors establish the Australian Height Datum and provide two benchmarks, which are essential for elevation references during the construction process.
3. Identify visible existing services: Surveyors locate and mark visible services such as manholes, pits, and utility boxes on the survey plan.
4. Document significant trees: The surveyor identifies and records significant trees on the property, including their trunk diameter, height, and branch spread.
5. Determine the location of existing buildings and neighboring structures: The surveyor locates and documents existing buildings, including eaves, gutters, roof peaks, and neighboring structures, for reference purposes.
6. Record spot levels around the house: Spot levels are recorded around the property to assist with future excavations or site works.

Typical Deliverables:

1. PDF copy of the Contour and Detail Survey: A comprehensive report detailing the survey findings, including contours and existing features, is provided to the client within 3-5 business days after the completion of the field survey.
2. 3D and 2D DWG files of the Contour and Detail Survey: Digital copies of the survey plan are provided in both 3D and 2D formats for compatibility with architectural and engineering software.

Typical Exclusions:

1. Underground service location: The survey does not involve identifying underground services.
2. Tree identification: While significant trees are located and documented, a separate tree identification plan is not included.
3. Natural Ground Level Plan: The survey does not provide a separate plan detailing the natural ground level.

Legal Requirements

In Brisbane, site surveys are subject to legal requirements outlined by the Surveying and Mapping Infrastructure Act 2003, the Surveyor Act 2003, and corresponding regulations. Compliance with these regulations ensures accuracy, transparency, and accountability in the surveying process. Failing to adhere to these requirements may result in legal disputes, issues with planning permissions, or construction delays.

Conclusion

Site surveys are crucial for residential properties in Brisbane as they provide vital information about boundaries, existing structures, services, and levels. Through identification surveys and contour and detail surveys, property owners, developers, and authorities gain accurate insights into the land they are dealing with. It is essential to comply with the legal requirements associated with these surveys to ensure transparency, avoid legal complications, and facilitate smooth construction and development processes. By engaging qualified surveyors and obtaining comprehensive survey reports, stakeholders can make informed decisions and ensure the successful execution of residential projects in Brisbane.

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