If you’re a homeowner in Queensland or planning to purchase a property, you may need to arrange a boundary survey.
Boundary surveys play a crucial role in defining the exact boundaries of a property, ensuring you know precisely what’s yours and preventing disputes with neighbours.
However, like any professional service, boundary survey costs can vary.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Factors affecting boundary survey costs
- Estimated boundary survey costs
- Obtaining quotes and making a decision
- How to budget for a boundary survey
- Cost saving tips
Whether you’re a seasoned property owner or a first-time buyer, understanding the boundary survey costs helps you budget effectively and make informed decisions regarding property transactions and development projects.
Here’s what you need to know.
Factors Affecting Boundary Survey Costs
Several factors contribute to the cost of surveying. Here are some of the main factors to consider:
Property Size and Shape
The size and shape of your property directly impact the cost of the survey, as larger properties require more time and resources to survey accurately.
Similarly, irregularly shaped properties may require additional measurements and calculations, leading to higher costs.
Terrain and Accessibility
The terrain of your property can also affect the cost. If your property is hilly, vegetated, or difficult to access, surveyors may require specialised equipment or additional manpower, which can increase the overall cost.
Property History and Records
Researching the historical records of your property is a crucial part of the surveying process.
If there are discrepancies or conflicting information in previous surveys or property deeds, surveyors may need to invest more time in resolving these issues, potentially increasing the cost.
Property Markers
Restoring or replacing property markers (such as boundary pegs) might be necessary, especially if they are missing or damaged. The cost of re-establishing these markers can add to the overall survey cost.
Local Regulations and Requirements
Different regions in Queensland might have specific regulations and requirements. Some areas may require additional steps or documentation, which could impact the cost.
Surveyor’s Experience and Reputation
Experienced and reputable firms may charge higher fees for their services. However, their expertise can often lead to more accurate and reliable results.
Estimated Boundary Survey Costs
On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from $2850 – $3000 + GST.
| Cost Element | Description | Cost Range (AUD) | GST (10%) | Total (AUD, incl. GST) |
| Basic Survey Fee | Fee for the standard boundary survey service | $2,850 – $3,000 | $285 – $300 | $3,135 – $3,300 |
| Travel Expenses | Additional costs for travel to properties outside urban areas | $0 – $500 | $0 – $50 | $0 – $550 |
| Complexity Surcharge | Additional charges for surveys on properties with complex landscapes or legal issues | $0 – $1,000 | $0 – $100 | $0 – $1,100 |
| Additional Reports | if we find an encroachment, following Section 18 of the Survey and Mapping Regulation 2014, we are required to send the person or entity being affected a letter notifying them of the encroachment. | $0 – $500 | $0 – $50 | $0 – $550 |
Important Notes:
- GST Impact: All listed costs are subject to a 10% Goods and Services Tax, which significantly affects the final price.
- Variability: The actual cost can vary widely depending on specific requirements, property location, and additional services. The table provides a range to accommodate different scenarios, but individual quotes may fall anywhere within or even outside these ranges.
PROTECT YOURSELF: How to Minimise Your Project Risks
Additional Considerations:
- Specific Property Factors: The exact cost within this range can vary based on specific factors related to the property, such as its size, location, and any complexities involved in the survey process.
- Potential Additional Costs: There might be additional costs not covered in the basic survey fee, such as travel expenses for properties located in remote areas, legal fees if there are boundary disputes, and costs related to additional services or reports.
Cost-saving tips to consider
- Prepare Your Documentation: Have all your property documentation ready, including any previous surveys and legal descriptions. This can save time and reduce your surveyor’s workload, potentially lowering costs.
- Clear Access: Ensure clear access to your property boundaries. Removing any obstructions or vegetation will make the surveyor’s job quick and easy, which may reduce the time billed for services.
- Combine Services: If you need additional surveying services (like topographical surveys, construction setouts, etc.), bundling them with the same provider is often more cost-effective than hiring various specialists for each task.
- Neighbour Collaboration: If neighbouring properties will benefit from a survey (e.g., in cases of shared boundaries), consider collaborating with them to share the cost of the survey. This can be particularly useful in resolving or preventing boundary disputes.
- Ask for a Fixed Price: Some surveyors offer a fixed price for their services, which can protect you from unexpected expenses. Be clear about what the quote includes and ask about potential additional costs.
- Timing: If your project timeline is flexible, inquire if there are off-peak times when the firm might offer discounted rates.
- Use Local Services: Choosing a surveyor who is based near your property can reduce travel costs and time-related expenses, which might be reflected in the survey cost.
- Understand What You Need: Be clear about the specific services you require. While over-specifying your needs can lead to unnecessary work and costs, under-specifying can result in missing critical information, potentially leading to additional costs down the line.
- Leverage Technology: Some surveyors may offer modern methods, such as drone surveys, which can be more efficient and cost-effective for certain types of land or projects. Ask about innovative solutions that can cut down on time and expenses.
Implementing these strategies can help manage and potentially reduce the costs associated with conducting a boundary survey in Queensland or elsewhere.
Finding the Right Surveyor
The process of obtaining quotes and deciding on the best service can seem daunting. Here’s how to confidently navigate through your options:
1. Gather Multiple Quotes
Start by requesting quotes from several surveying companies. This not only gives you a comparative view of the market rates but also insights into the scope of services offered by different providers.
Including bplanned & surveyed in this mix allows you to directly measure our expertise against others.
2. Evaluate Expertise and Experience
Look for companies with a strong track record in boundary surveys, particularly those familiar with properties in your area. A reputable firm should be transparent about their experience, with a portfolio or testimonials that speak to their capability and reliability.
Take a look at our finished projects
3. Check for Licensing and Insurance
Ensure that any surveyor you consider is fully licensed to operate in Queensland. Additionally, they should carry the necessary insurance policies to protect you and your property during the surveying process.
4. Consider the Scope of Services
Different properties and projects require different surveying services. Examine the specifics of what each company offers and how these align with your needs. A good provider will offer tailored services that address your property’s unique challenges.
5. Communication and Customer Service
The quality of communication is often a good indicator of service quality. Look for companies that respond promptly, clearly, and are willing to discuss and clarify your needs.
Exceptional customer service, transparency, and willingness to engage in detailed discussions about your project are hallmarks of a reputable firm.
6. Comparing Value, Not Just Price
While cost is important, the cheapest quote may not always offer the best value. Consider what is included in the price, such as additional services or guarantees that could be beneficial in the long run.
Evaluate each proposal on what it offers beyond just the numbers.
Why bplanned & surveyed Stands Out
We pride ourselves on our depth of knowledge, extensive experience, and commitment to providing personalised services that precisely meet the needs of your property.
Our expertise is evident in every quote – you’re not just choosing a service provider; you’re selecting a partner dedicated to delivering excellence.
Boundary Survey Costs: Final Thoughts
When it comes to property ownership and development, a boundary survey is an essential step.
While costs can vary based on a range of factors, including property size, terrain, and surveyor expertise, it’s crucial to view it as an investment in your property’s future.
By obtaining quotes, understanding the scope of the survey, and budgeting effectively, you can navigate the process smoothly and ensure that your property rights are protected.
By working with skilled surveying professionals and allocating a reasonable budget, you’re not only ensuring your property’s integrity but also contributing to your peace of mind as a property owner in Queensland.
Can You Afford to Skip Surveying or Town Planning?
Our experienced team, headed by Jim Goodwin, takes on all sorts of projects, from large subdivisions to infrastructure projects and private development, both urban and rural.
We’re registered with the Queensland Surveyors Board and backed by a Cadastral and Consulting endorsement. Furthermore, we have full accreditation with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines to examine and endorse survey plans.
At bplanned & surveyed, we employ both town planners and surveyors, ensuring that sensitive deadlines are met throughout the entire build process.
This collaboration allows us to coordinate internally to ensure milestones are met and documentation remains up-to-date and on time for local council review and approval intervals.
If you need a survey for your build or real estate project, give us a call at 1300 275 266, or request a quote online, and we’ll get back to you right away.
