Yeah, those online easement maps can be a real headache sometimes. I've seen some that look like someone let their toddler loose with a box of crayons—lines everywhere, zero clarity. 😂 Did you find the county records easy enough to navigate once you got hold of them? I've had mixed experiences myself; some counties have everything neatly digitized and searchable, while others still hand you a dusty old binder from 1982.
Had a similar fence issue pop up on a recent build. The homeowner next door had no clue they'd been encroaching for years. Thankfully, like your neighbors, they were cool about moving it back once we showed them the official survey. But it did make me wonder how many fences out there are quietly creeping onto the neighbor's property without anyone noticing...
Have you considered getting an official survey done just to have it on record? I know it's an extra cost upfront, but it can save so much hassle down the line—especially if you're planning any landscaping or building projects near property lines. Online tools are great as a starting point, but nothing beats having an official document in hand when questions come up later.
Glad your neighbors were chill about moving their fence though...not everyone reacts that way!
I've found county records to be a mixed bag myself. Some counties have really stepped up their game with digitized records, but others...well, let's just say I've spent more time than I'd like flipping through faded pages and squinting at handwritten notes. Official surveys are definitely worth the upfront cost—saved me from a few headaches over the years. Curious though, has anyone here ever had an easement issue pop up after relying solely on online maps?
Had a client a couple years back who relied exclusively on online maps for preliminary planning. Looked clean on screen, but when we got the official survey done, boom—there was a utility easement right where they envisioned their detached garage. Online maps are handy for initial scoping, sure, but they're not foolproof. Always worth the extra step to cross-reference with official documents or surveys before you commit real money or time...lesson learned the hard way on that one.
Just curious, did you find the easement info clearly labeled on the official survey, or did you have to dig deeper into county records or something? I'm in the early stages of planning my first custom home and honestly, the online tools are driving me nuts. One site shows a utility easement along the side of my property, another doesn't even mention it. Makes me wonder how accurate any of these sites really are...
I mean, I get they're good for a quick look, but how much trust should we really put in them? Should I just bite the bullet and get a professional survey right off the bat, or is there some reliable middle step I can take first? Seems like every decision comes down to either spending extra money upfront or risking a costly mistake later. Would appreciate any insights from someone who's already navigated this mess.
Online tools are handy for quick checks, but honestly, they're hit or miss on accuracy. When I built my place, the official survey clearly marked the easements, but I still double-checked with county records to be safe. I'd say skip the online guesswork and either visit your county office or get a pro survey early—it'll save you headaches (and probably money) down the road.
