Planning a new home, renovation, extension or subdivision in 2027? Find out why getting your land survey completed now can help you beat the end-of-year rush and keep your project moving.

Is Your Surveyor Actually Registered? Here's Why That Question Matters

Not everyone who measures a property is a registered surveyor  and for some jobs, that difference isn't a technicality. It's the difference between a document you can actually use and one you can't.

The short answer

In NSW, only a surveyor registered under the Surveying and Spatial Information Act 2002 can carry out cadastral surveying - the boundary, subdivision, and title work that defines and affects land ownership. Registration is administered by the Board of Surveying and Spatial Information (BOSSI).

If your job involves a boundary, a subdivision, or anything that needs to be lodged with NSW Land Registry Services, you need a registered surveyor. Find Out More.

Boundary Survey or Detail Survey, which one do you need?

They’re two of the most commonly requested property surveys, but they answer very different questions.

A boundary survey establishes where your property legally begins and ends. It’s commonly needed for fencing, possible encroachments, boundary disputes and building close to a property line.

A detail and contour survey records the physical features and levels of the site including buildings, trees, retaining walls, drainage, services and ground levels. It provides the base information architects, engineers and planners need to design your project.

Ever wondered what a surveyor is doing behind that tripod? Discover the complete boundary survey process, from property research and field measurements to boundary calculations and delivery of your final survey plan.

Most NSW property owners never need to think about the system under which their land is held, until they plan a subdivision, investigate a boundary issue, buy or sell a property, or encounter an unexpected title matter during settlement.

While most land in New South Wales is now registered under Torrens Title, a small amount remains under Old System Title.

Understanding the difference can help property owners allow enough time for surveying, legal investigations and possible title conversion.

Fence Disputes in NSW: What the Law Says and When You Need a Boundary Survey?

Fence disputes are among the most common disagreements between neighbouring property owners in NSW. While they may begin as a disagreement about fencing materials, height or cost, many are ultimately caused by uncertainty about the legal property boundary.

Before replacing, relocating or paying for a dividing fence, it is important to understand the difference between a fencing dispute and a boundary dispute.

Subdividing Property in NSW: The Process, Costs and Where to Start?

With the NSW Government committed to increasing housing supply, more property owners are asking whether their land could accommodate an additional lot or dwelling.

Subdivision can unlock development potential, create a separate property to sell, support a dual-occupancy project or provide housing for another generation. However, increased housing targets do not mean every property can automatically be subdivided.

Zoning, minimum lot size, access, services, environmental constraints and local planning controls still determine what is possible.

The most valuable first step is a subdivision feasibility assessment completed before significant money is committed to design or development.