Do I need an up-to-date survey when buying a property in Ontario?

A survey (formally an Ontario Land Survey conducted by a licensed Ontario Land Surveyor) shows the exact boundaries of the property, the location of the building on the lot, and any encroachments or physical features that might affect the title. It is an important document that shows whether a fence, driveway, or structure is within the property lines.

Most lenders previously required a current survey as a condition of financing. Today, many lenders accept title insurance as a substitute, which means surveys are less commonly produced for resale transactions. Title insurance covers the risk that a survey problem exists, but it does not actually resolve the problem — it just protects you financially if one surfaces.

If you are buying a property where boundaries or encroachments are a concern — such as a rural property, a property with a recent addition, or one with a long history of boundary disputes — obtaining a current survey may be worth the cost. Your lawyer can advise whether the existing survey (if any) is sufficient or whether a new one is warranted for your specific purchase.