The seller gave me a survey from when they bought the house 15 years ago. Is it still good?
Asked October 25, 2026
AI answer · not yet verified by a surveyor
Maybe, but only for what hasn't changed. A survey shows conditions on the date it was done [1].
An old survey may still be useful if:
- nothing has been built, added or moved since (no new fences, sheds, additions or driveways),
- neighbors haven't built near the line, and
- the title company and your lender accept it, which often means an affidavit saying nothing changed.
Get a new or updated survey if:
- there have been improvements on your lot or next door,
- monuments are missing,
- you want title-policy survey coverage, or
- you plan to build, fence or subdivide soon.
A survey is also certified to specific people, and a new buyer usually can't rely on the old certification [2]. Many surveyors can update their own earlier survey for less than a new one, so ask the original firm first.
General information only. Answers here are not a survey or legal advice, and no one here can tell you where your boundary is. For your property, hire a licensed land surveyor in your state; for legal questions, a real-estate attorney.