Finding a plat of survey for your Pike County, Kentucky property can seem daunting, but understanding the process and available resources simplifies things considerably. This guide walks you through the steps, addressing common questions along the way.
Where Can I Find a Plat of Survey for My Pike County Property?
The primary sources for obtaining a plat of survey in Pike County are the Pike County Property Valuation Administrator's ( PVA) office and the Pike County Clerk's office. The PVA office typically maintains records of property assessments, which often include plats. The County Clerk's office holds official records of property deeds and other legal documents, some of which might include plats.
It's crucial to have your property's legal description readily available. This detailed description is essential for locating your property records within the vast databases maintained by these offices. The legal description is often found on your deed or property tax assessment notice.
What if the Plat isn't Available at the County Offices?
Sometimes, older properties may lack readily available plats at the county level. In such cases, you might need to consider these options:
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Contacting a Surveyor: A licensed land surveyor in Pike County can conduct a new survey to create a plat of your property. This is a more costly option but ensures accurate representation of your property boundaries.
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Searching for Previous Deeds: Older deeds, especially those predating modern surveying practices, might contain rudimentary sketches or descriptions that could help in piecing together the property boundaries. The Pike County Clerk's office is the best place to search for these older documents.
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Checking with Adjacent Property Owners: Neighboring property owners may have plats of their properties that could provide clues about your property's boundaries. However, rely on official records rather than neighborly information for legal purposes.
What Information is Typically Included on a Plat of Survey?
A plat of survey is a scaled drawing that visually represents your property's boundaries, dimensions, and features. Expect to find the following information:
- Property Lines: Clearly defined boundaries, often marked with bearings and distances.
- Dimensions: Precise measurements of sides and corners of your property.
- Area: The total acreage of your property.
- Easements: Any rights-of-way that affect your property, such as utility easements.
- Improvements: Existing structures on the property (house, barn, etc.) and their locations.
- Legal Description: The formal legal description of your property.
- North Arrow: Indication of north direction for proper orientation.
- Scale: The scale used to create the drawing.
How Much Does a Plat of Survey Cost?
The cost of obtaining a plat of survey varies. If you obtain a copy of an existing plat from the county offices, the cost will typically be a nominal fee for copying the document. If you need a new survey conducted, the cost will depend on the size and complexity of the property, the surveyor's fees, and any associated permits or research costs. Contacting several surveyors for quotes is recommended.
What is the Difference Between a Plat and a Deed?
A deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of property. It establishes ownership but doesn't necessarily include a detailed graphical representation of the property's boundaries.
A plat is a visual representation of the property's boundaries, dimensions, and features. It’s a map, not a legal document transferring ownership, though it supports the information on a deed.
How Can I Ensure the Accuracy of My Plat of Survey?
Always ensure your plat is prepared by a licensed and qualified land surveyor. Check their credentials with the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. A professionally prepared plat will minimize any future boundary disputes.
Obtaining a plat of survey for your Pike County property involves understanding your options and utilizing the resources available at the county level. Remember to always rely on official records and consider consulting a surveyor for accurate and legally sound information.
