Quick answer: Top Rail Fence's Brad Ledford was recently featured as the sole expert source in Home Living Handbook's article on property surveys, explaining why homeowners should confirm their legal boundary lines before building a fence, deck, shed, or other outdoor structure. His insights highlight how a professional survey protects homeowners from costly encroachment issues and sets up any fall or year-end project for success.
Top Rail Fence is proud to share that Brad Ledford, Senior Franchise Operations Manager, was featured as the sole expert source in a new article from Home Living Handbook: Why a Property Survey Is Important. The piece dives into a question that comes up constantly in the fencing industry: how do homeowners know exactly where their property begins and ends before construction starts?
It's a timely topic. As fall approaches and homeowners plan their last outdoor projects before winter, understanding property boundaries is one of the most overlooked—yet essential—steps before any fence, deck, or addition goes in.
Why does a property survey matter before building a fence?
According to Ledford, a boundary survey is "a professional measurement and mapping of a property's legal boundaries." A licensed surveyor reviews recorded documents and field evidence, then communicates the results through markers, a plat, or other documentation appropriate to the project.
This distinction matters because contractors and surveyors serve different roles. A contractor understands how to build a fence correctly. A licensed surveyor determines where that fence is legally allowed to go. Skipping this step and relying on an existing fence line, a friendly agreement with a neighbor, or assumed property corners can create expensive problems down the road.
What happens if you skip the survey?
Ledford was direct about the risks: "The biggest protection a survey provides is certainty. It helps reduce the risk of placing a fence on a neighbor's property and gives the homeowner and contractor a documented boundary to work from."
He's seen the alternative play out firsthand. "I have seen situations where property owners skipped the survey because they were trying to save a little money up front. Unfortunately, that decision can become extremely expensive if a fence must be relocated later."
That's a critical point for anyone planning a fall fencing project. A survey typically costs far less than tearing out and rebuilding a structure that encroaches on a neighbor's land—not to mention the legal complications and strained neighbor relationships that can follow.
Which outdoor projects need a survey?
While surveys come up most often with fence installations, Ledford noted that they're just as important for other structures built near a property line, including:
- Fences and gates
- Sheds and detached garages
- Driveways
- Decks
- Home additions
- Retaining walls
- Pools and other outdoor structures
The closer a project sits to the edge of a property, the more valuable a survey becomes.
Why do homeowners rush this step?
Ledford's take on homeowner behavior is one of the more memorable parts of the feature: "People don't wake up one morning and say, 'I want a fence.' People don't really want fences, they need fences." A new dog, a toddler, a new neighbor, or an upcoming celebration can all create urgency—and urgency is exactly when homeowners are most likely to skip proper planning.
His advice for anyone feeling that pressure: "Slow down, verify the property line with a licensed surveyor, communicate with your neighbor, and build it right the first time."
Read the full article on Home Living Handbook to see Ledford's complete breakdown of what a survey covers, how it protects your investment, and why it belongs at the top of every pre-construction checklist: Why a Property Survey Is Important.
Plan your fall fence project with confidence
This feature reflects something Top Rail Fence emphasizes with every customer: a great fence starts with a solid plan. Our team works with homeowners one-on-one to understand their property, their goals, and any boundary considerations that could affect the build. Every fence we install is backed by quality materials and a process designed to get it right the first time.
As you plan your fall or year-end outdoor project, let Top Rail Fence help you build with confidence—starting with a clear, accurate understanding of where your property lines fall.
FAQ
Why was Brad Ledford featured in this article?
Brad Ledford, Senior Franchise Operations Manager at Top Rail Fence, was selected as the sole expert source because of his hands-on experience helping homeowners navigate property boundaries before fence and outdoor construction projects.
Do I need a survey even if my neighbor and I agree on the property line?
Yes. A verbal agreement or an existing fence doesn't confirm the legal boundary. Only a licensed surveyor can verify where your property actually begins and ends.
Is a property survey only necessary for fences?
No. Surveys are also important for sheds, garages, driveways, decks, home additions, retaining walls, and pools—any structure built near a property line.
When is the best time to schedule a survey for a fall fencing project?
As early as possible. Scheduling a survey before finalizing project plans helps avoid delays and ensures your fence installation stays on track before winter weather arrives. Contact us today to schedule your free estimate!
