As a property owner in Cook County, IL, having a plat of survey is essential for understanding the boundaries and features of your land. A plat of survey is a detailed map that shows the property lines, easements, and other important features of your property. But where can you get a plat of survey in Cook County, IL? In this article, we will explore the various options available to you, including government agencies, online resources, and private surveying companies.
Understanding the Importance of a Plat of Survey
Before we dive into where to get a plat of survey, it’s essential to understand why you need one. A plat of survey is a critical document that provides a visual representation of your property’s boundaries, size, and shape. It also shows the location of any easements, encroachments, and other features that may affect your property’s value or use.
Having a plat of survey can help you:
- Verify property boundaries: A plat of survey can help you identify the exact boundaries of your property, which can be essential for resolving disputes with neighbors or determining the location of fences, walls, or other structures.
- Identify easements and encroachments: A plat of survey can show the location of easements, such as utility lines or access roads, and encroachments, such as neighboring buildings or structures that may be encroaching on your property.
- Determine property value: A plat of survey can provide valuable information about your property’s size, shape, and features, which can affect its value.
- Plan for development or construction: A plat of survey can help you plan for development or construction projects, such as building a new home or adding an extension to your existing property.
Government Agencies: A Primary Source for Plats of Survey
One of the primary sources for plats of survey in Cook County, IL, is government agencies. The following agencies may have plats of survey available for your property:
Cook County Recorder of Deeds
The Cook County Recorder of Deeds is responsible for maintaining records of all property transactions in Cook County, including plats of survey. You can search for plats of survey online or in person at the Recorder of Deeds office.
Cook County Assessor’s Office
The Cook County Assessor’s Office is responsible for assessing the value of all properties in Cook County. They may have plats of survey available for your property, which can be obtained online or in person.
Cook County Department of Building and Zoning
The Cook County Department of Building and Zoning is responsible for enforcing building codes and zoning regulations in Cook County. They may have plats of survey available for your property, which can be obtained online or in person.
Online Resources: A Convenient Option
In addition to government agencies, there are several online resources where you can obtain a plat of survey in Cook County, IL. Some of these resources include:
Cook County’s Online Mapping System
Cook County’s online mapping system provides access to a wealth of information about properties in Cook County, including plats of survey. You can search for your property by address or parcel number and view the plat of survey online.
PropertyShark
PropertyShark is a online real estate platform that provides access to property records, including plats of survey. You can search for your property by address or parcel number and view the plat of survey online.
Homefacts
Homefacts is a online real estate platform that provides access to property records, including plats of survey. You can search for your property by address or parcel number and view the plat of survey online.
Private Surveying Companies: A Customized Option
If you’re unable to find a plat of survey through government agencies or online resources, you may want to consider hiring a private surveying company. Private surveying companies can create a customized plat of survey for your property, which can be tailored to your specific needs.
Some of the benefits of hiring a private surveying company include:
- Customized service: Private surveying companies can provide a customized plat of survey that meets your specific needs.
- Accurate and up-to-date information: Private surveying companies can provide accurate and up-to-date information about your property’s boundaries, size, and shape.
- Expert analysis: Private surveying companies can provide expert analysis of your property’s features and boundaries.
What to Expect from a Plat of Survey
A plat of survey is a detailed map that shows the boundaries and features of your property. Here are some of the things you can expect to see on a plat of survey:
Property boundaries
A plat of survey will show the exact boundaries of your property, including the location of any easements or encroachments.
Easements and encroachments
A plat of survey will show the location of any easements, such as utility lines or access roads, and encroachments, such as neighboring buildings or structures that may be encroaching on your property.
Property size and shape
A plat of survey will show the size and shape of your property, including any irregularities or anomalies.
Topographic features
A plat of survey may show topographic features, such as hills, valleys, or waterways, that may affect your property’s value or use.
Conclusion
Obtaining a plat of survey is an essential step in understanding the boundaries and features of your property in Cook County, IL. Whether you’re a homeowner, developer, or investor, a plat of survey can provide valuable information about your property’s size, shape, and features. By exploring the various options available to you, including government agencies, online resources, and private surveying companies, you can get the information you need to make informed decisions about your property.
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Government Agencies | Official records, accurate information | May require in-person visit, limited online access |
| Online Resources | Convenient, easy to use, affordable | May not have up-to-date information, limited customization options |
| Private Surveying Companies | Customized service, accurate and up-to-date information, expert analysis | May be more expensive, requires hiring a professional |
By considering these options and weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about where to get a plat of survey in Cook County, IL.
What is a plat of survey and why do I need it?
A plat of survey is a detailed map that shows the boundaries and features of a specific parcel of land. It is typically created by a licensed surveyor and is used to identify the property lines, easements, and other important features of the land. You may need a plat of survey for a variety of reasons, such as to resolve a property dispute, to determine the location of property lines, or to identify any easements or encroachments on the property.
Having a plat of survey can be especially important in Cook County, IL, where property lines and boundaries can be complex and confusing. By obtaining a plat of survey, you can gain a better understanding of your property and avoid potential disputes or issues down the line. Additionally, a plat of survey can be a valuable tool when buying or selling a property, as it can provide important information about the property’s boundaries and features.
Where can I get a plat of survey in Cook County, IL?
In Cook County, IL, you can obtain a plat of survey from a variety of sources, including the Cook County Recorder of Deeds, the Cook County Assessor’s Office, and private surveying companies. The Cook County Recorder of Deeds is responsible for maintaining records of all property transactions in the county, including plats of survey. You can visit their office in person or search their online database to see if a plat of survey is on file for your property.
Alternatively, you can also contact a private surveying company to create a new plat of survey for your property. This can be a more expensive option, but it can provide you with a detailed and up-to-date map of your property’s boundaries and features. Be sure to choose a reputable and licensed surveyor to ensure that your plat of survey is accurate and reliable.
How do I search for a plat of survey online?
To search for a plat of survey online, you can visit the website of the Cook County Recorder of Deeds or the Cook County Assessor’s Office. Both websites offer online databases that allow you to search for property records, including plats of survey. You can search by property address, parcel number, or other identifying information to see if a plat of survey is on file for your property.
When searching online, be sure to have as much information as possible about your property, including the property address, parcel number, and any other relevant details. This will help you to narrow down your search and find the plat of survey you need. Additionally, be aware that not all plats of survey may be available online, so you may need to visit the Recorder of Deeds or Assessor’s Office in person to obtain a copy.
What information do I need to provide to get a plat of survey?
To obtain a plat of survey, you will typically need to provide some basic information about your property, including the property address, parcel number, and any other relevant details. You may also need to provide identification and proof of ownership, such as a deed or title report. If you are searching for a plat of survey online, you will need to have this information readily available to enter into the search database.
If you are hiring a private surveyor to create a new plat of survey, you will need to provide them with access to your property and any relevant information about the property’s boundaries and features. This may include information about any easements, encroachments, or other issues that affect the property. Be sure to provide your surveyor with as much information as possible to ensure that your plat of survey is accurate and reliable.
How much does it cost to get a plat of survey?
The cost of a plat of survey can vary depending on the source and the complexity of the survey. If you obtain a plat of survey from the Cook County Recorder of Deeds or Assessor’s Office, the cost is typically minimal, ranging from a few dollars to $20 or $30. However, if you hire a private surveyor to create a new plat of survey, the cost can be significantly higher, ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars.
The cost of a plat of survey from a private surveyor will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and complexity of the property, the surveyor’s fees, and any additional services that are required. Be sure to get a detailed estimate from your surveyor before hiring them to ensure that you understand the costs involved.
How long does it take to get a plat of survey?
The time it takes to get a plat of survey can vary depending on the source and the complexity of the survey. If you obtain a plat of survey from the Cook County Recorder of Deeds or Assessor’s Office, you can typically get it immediately or within a few days. However, if you hire a private surveyor to create a new plat of survey, the process can take several weeks or even months.
The time it takes to complete a plat of survey will depend on a variety of factors, including the surveyor’s workload, the complexity of the property, and any additional services that are required. Be sure to ask your surveyor for a detailed timeline and to keep you informed of their progress to ensure that you get your plat of survey in a timely manner.
Can I create my own plat of survey?
While it is technically possible to create your own plat of survey, it is not recommended unless you have extensive experience and training in surveying. Creating a plat of survey requires specialized knowledge and equipment, and it can be easy to make mistakes or overlook important details. If you are not a licensed surveyor, it is best to hire a professional to create a plat of survey for you.
Additionally, a plat of survey created by a non-professional may not be accepted by government agencies or other authorities, which can cause problems when buying or selling a property or resolving a property dispute. By hiring a licensed surveyor, you can ensure that your plat of survey is accurate, reliable, and accepted by all relevant parties.