Totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve had those online maps show a fence line that didn’t even exist anymore—almost built a shed on my neighbor’s land. Digital tools are great for a ballpark, but nothing beats the actual survey docs. Learned that lesson quick.
Digital tools are great for a ballpark, but nothing beats the actual survey docs. Learned that lesson quick.
Been there myself—once had a GIS map show a utility easement that was actually abandoned years ago. Here’s how I handle it now: First, I pull up the online maps for a rough idea. Next, I check the county records for any recorded easements or plats. Then, I always walk the property with the latest survey in hand. It’s a bit of a hassle, but it’s saved me from some awkward conversations with neighbors. Those digital maps are handy, but I never trust them alone anymore.
Funny you mention awkward neighbor chats—last year I had a client swearing up and down their fence was on their land, just because the county’s online map said so. Turns out, the survey showed it off by almost two feet. Digital tools are decent for a quick peek, but I’ve learned not to trust them for anything serious. I always want to see that stamped survey before making any promises. It’s wild how much old info lingers online... makes me wonder how many folks are building sheds in the wrong spot.
TITLE: Digging into property easements—anyone else find online tools confusing?
Yeah, those county maps are handy for a ballpark, but I’ve seen them be way off more times than I can count. Even the “official” GIS stuff is just an overlay—never matches up perfectly in the field. I always tell folks: if you’re pouring concrete or setting posts, get a real survey. It’s not cheap, but fixing a misplaced garage costs way more. Funny how many people just trust what’s online and hope for the best...
“Even the ‘official’ GIS stuff is just an overlay—never matches up perfectly in the field. I always tell folks: if you’re pouring concrete or setting posts, get a real survey. It’s not cheap, but fixing a misplaced garage costs way more.”
That’s the part that gets me every time. I totally get why people want to rely on those online maps—they’re free, they look official, and it feels like you’re doing your homework. But I’ve been burned by this before. When we bought our place, I spent hours squinting at the county GIS, thinking I had it all figured out. Turns out, the “property line” on the map was off by almost six feet compared to what the surveyor found. Six feet! That’s not just a rounding error.
I’ll admit, I hesitated on paying for a survey at first. It’s not pocket change, and when you’re already stretched thin from closing costs and moving expenses, it feels like one more thing to nickel-and-dime you. But honestly, after seeing how far off those online tools can be, I’d rather pay upfront than risk having to move a fence or worse—deal with a neighbor dispute down the line.
The other thing is easements themselves are rarely clear on those maps. Sometimes they’re marked, sometimes not, and even when they are, there’s no detail about what’s actually allowed or restricted. I tried calling the county office for clarification once and got three different answers depending on who picked up the phone.
I do wish there was a middle ground—like some kind of affordable “mini-survey” just for peace of mind before you go all-in on a big project. But until then, I guess it’s either roll the dice with the online stuff or bite the bullet and get it done right.
It’s wild how much trust people put in those digital lines. They look so precise on screen... but in reality? Not so much.
