Why Property Surveys Matter in Pinellas County

When it comes to buying a home in Pinellas County, it’s easy to focus on curb appeal, location, and price. But one detail that often gets overlooked—until it’s too late—is the property survey. In this unique area of Florida, where older neighborhoods, flipped homes, and waterfront properties are common, a survey can save you from expensive surprises.

Why Surveys Are Critical in Pinellas

• Older neighborhoods often have confusing or restructured lot lines.
  
  

• Foreclosures and flipped properties may have outdated or incorrect legal descriptions.
  
  

• Pool homes and corner lots are especially prone to boundary issues.
  
  

Skipping a survey could mean accidentally buying part of someone else’s backyard—or discovering a structure on your property that doesn’t legally belong to you.

Take Troy, for example—Walseth’s team leader who thought he was purchasing a home in Largo with a pool, only to find out after closing that the pool was actually built on the neighbor’s lot. He ended up paying an additional $10,000 to buy the land he thought he already owned—plus legal fees and weeks of stress.

https://youtu.be/AvFErZwspLU?si=5m9_lA2OOq26XX_t 

Click to view Troy’s real experience with a boundary dispute in Pinellas County.

His story is the perfect reminder: even for cash deals, a $400 survey is worth every penny.

What a Survey Can Reveal

• Property boundaries and lot dimensions
  
  

• Encroachments (fences, sheds, driveways, pools, etc.)
  
  

• Easements and right-of-ways
  
  

• Accurate locations of improvements and structures
  
  

Pro Tip: Even for cash deals—always get a survey. It might not be required, but title companies highly recommend it for good reason. Just ask Troy from Largo—he ended up paying $10,000 to buy land he thought he already owned.

Why Surveys Are Especially Important in Certain Pinellas Communities

1. Largo

With a mix of post-war homes, infill development, and rezoned lots, Largo often presents unclear or outdated boundary records. New homes built on subdivided land might not align with original plats, making surveys essential.

2. Seminole

In Seminole’s unincorporated areas, infrastructure records may be lacking. It’s not uncommon for fences or pools to cross property lines—especially on corner lots—making buyers unintentionally responsible for a neighbor's encroachment.

3. Indian Rocks Beach

This coastal community has uniquely shaped lots, older homes, and proximity to shifting shorelines. Add in seawalls, docks, or driveways, and you’ve got a recipe for potential disputes without a professional survey.

$400 Survey vs. $10,000 Problem: What Would You Choose?

How to Spot a Good Surveyor

The right surveyor makes a huge difference. Look for:

• Florida-licensed professionals familiar with Pinellas zoning
  
  

• Use of GPS mapping and CAD technology
  
  

• Clear, easy-to-read reports with fast turnaround
  
  

• Willingness to explain findings and red flags before closing
  
  

Always ask for references or sample surveys before hiring. A trusted surveyor will work closely with your title company and real estate agent to ensure your legal description is rock-solid.

If you're unsure where to start, we recommend these trusted vendors we've personally worked with here at the Walseth Team.

Surveying St. Pete
727-537-9895
surveystpete@gmail.com

Target Surveying 

1-800-226-4807

orders@targetsurveying.net

Need more guidance or referrals? The Walseth Team is always here to help. Contact us for expert insight, trusted vendors, and a stress-free home buying experience.

Final Thought: A Small Investment with Big Protection

A property survey isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s peace of mind. Especially in the varied neighborhoods of Pinellas County, this $400 investment can prevent five-figure problems, costly delays, and legal battles.

Even if you’re paying cash, don’t skip the survey.