20/12/2025
APT STAY INFORMED
WHY YOU MUST HAVE A SURVEY PLAN BEFORE BUILDING OR BUYING LAND
In Nigeria today, many people still buy land without requesting for a survey plan. This mistake has cost countless families their hard-earned money. A survey plan is not just a piece of paper, it’s one of the most important documents you need to secure and develop your property.
Here are 5 reasons why it’s non-negotiable:
1. Proof of Ownership – A survey plan shows the exact land that belongs to you, with coordinates and boundaries clearly stated.
2. Avoids Land Disputes – Many land cases in Nigeria come from unclear boundaries. With a survey, your land is legally defined.
3. Government Verification – It helps you confirm if the land is under government acquisition or truly free for you to own.
4. Building Approval & C of O – No survey plan, no building approval. It is also required when applying for a Certificate of Occupancy.
5. Prevents Encroachment – The plan protects your boundaries so that neighbors or strangers don’t push into your land.
And beyond these, a survey plan enables architects to effectively and efficiently utilize the available space when designing your building. Without it, your project is built on guesswork.
Before you pay for land, insist on seeing the survey plan. If you’re about to build, make sure you secure one, it saves you stress, money, and legal battles in the future.
& build