Types of Land Surveys in India
- Cadastral Survey: Government survey for revenue records (Khasra maps)
- Topographic Survey: Terrain and elevation mapping
- Boundary Survey: Marks exact plot boundaries — what you need before buying
- GPS/DGPS Survey: Modern digital survey with sub-meter accuracy
Reading the Khasra Map
Each plot in India has a Khasra (survey) number. The Khasra map (village map) shows plot boundaries, adjacencies, and area. Access it via your state's Bhulekh portal. Key fields: Khasra No., Area (in Hectares), Land Type, Owner Name.
Understanding Bearing Notations
Old deeds describe boundaries as "N 45° E" meaning North 45 degrees East. This is a compass bearing from one boundary marker to the next. Modern GPS surveys replace these with UTM coordinates, which are far more accurate.
Red Flags in Survey Documents
- Boundary described only by neighbor names (not measurements)
- Area mismatch between deed and Khasra map > 2%
- Missing or disputed Khasra number
- Survey dated before 1970 with no update
Hiring a Licensed Surveyor
In India, only government-licensed surveyors (registered with State Survey Departments) can produce legally valid boundary surveys. Cost: ₹2,000–10,000 per plot. Always insist on a licensed surveyor's stamp and registration number on the survey report.