A property survey may look like a simple drawing, but in a Staten Island or Brooklyn purchase it is one of the most important documents in your entire deal. It verifies the property lines, identifies encroachments and confirms the lot you are buying is exactly what the seller owns.

What a Survey Actually Shows

A licensed land survey generally includes:

• Exact property boundaries and lot dimensions

• Structures on the property such as the home, garage or extensions

• Fences, retaining walls and driveways

• Encroachments where a neighbor’s structure crosses the boundary

• Easements such as shared driveways or utility access

• Setbacks and zoning related dimensions

In NYC, these details matter because lot sizes are tight, homes are older and structures may have been added decades ago without modern paperwork.

Why It Matters in Staten Island and Brooklyn

• A fence may sit on your property even though the neighbor uses it.

• A garage addition may cross a required setback and affect future work.

• A shared driveway may not be legally shared unless the survey or deed says so.

• A deck or extension may sit beyond the legal property line.

These issues can affect financing, insurance, resale and your ability to build or modify the home in the future.

What Buyers Should Do

• Always review the survey during the attorney review period.

• Compare survey measurements to the listing and property description.

• Walk the property with the survey in hand to confirm structures match.

• Ask questions about any encroachment or easement.

• Make sure the survey matches the Certificate of Occupancy and title documents.

When I guide clients in the 103xx and 11209, 11214 and 11228 markets, we use the survey as a map to understand risk, value and future potential. It is one of the clearest tools to protect you before closing.

—

Joseph Ranola | Five-Star Staten Island & South Brooklyn Realtor® (30 + Google reviews)
Associate Broker · Matias Real Estate | Founder · Bridge & Boro Team
Serving 103xx and 11209 / 11214 / 11228 | $25 M + closed volume
📞 917-716-1496 | ranolarealestate.com