Totally agree about the online tools being unreliable. Had a similar issue once where the online maps didn't show an old drainage easement running right through the area we planned for a patio. Ended up redesigning the whole layout last minute—client wasn't thrilled, but better than dealing with flooding later. Makes me wonder how often these hidden easements pop up mid-project...anyone had surprises like that derail their plans?
I've had similar frustrations with online mapping tools. Last year, my wife and I were planning to install a fence along our backyard—simple enough, we thought. Checked the usual online resources, didn't see anything unusual, so we went ahead and budgeted accordingly. But when we started the permitting process with the city, they flagged an old utility easement running right along our property line. The online maps hadn't shown it at all.
We ended up having to move the fence inward by a good three feet to avoid encroaching on the easement. Doesn't sound like much, but it significantly reduced our usable yard space and threw off our landscaping plans. Plus, materials had already been ordered based on original measurements—so there went our carefully planned budget.
Honestly, it made me question how reliable these online tools actually are when it comes to detailed property info. Sure, they're convenient for quick checks and basic layouts, but maybe they're not meant to be comprehensive? I'm guessing professional surveyors or city records might be more accurate—but of course, that's another expense and hassle most homeowners would rather avoid if possible.
Has anyone here found that hiring a professional surveyor upfront saves money in the long run by preventing these mid-project surprises? Or is that just another expense that doesn't always pay off?
