When a plan of redefinition helps
Many older NSW titles rely on historic plans that may have limited measurements, discrepancies or boundaries that were never accurately marked. A plan of redefinition records the boundaries using modern survey, connected to survey marks, so future owners, builders and authorities can rely on them. Councils, lenders or solicitors sometimes ask for one before development, consolidation or a transaction.
What's involved
The surveyor researches the title and historic plans, investigates the boundary evidence on site, calculates the boundaries and prepares a plan for lodgement with NSW Land Registry Services. Where boundaries are uncertain, neighbouring titles may also need to be investigated. Your solicitor or conveyancer advises on the legal steps that go with the plan.
Redefinition, boundary survey or subdivision?
A boundary survey marks the boundaries on site but does not register a new plan. A subdivision creates new lots. A plan of redefinition sits in between: it registers an accurate plan of the existing land.
What affects the cost of a plan of redefinition
Redefinition is research-heavy. Cost depends on the age and quality of the historic plans, how much original survey evidence survives on the ground, the number of boundaries involved and whether adjoining titles must also be investigated. Old system and very early Torrens titles often need the most work.
Many Illawarra and South Coast properties sit on early subdivisions where a redefinition gives future owners certainty. Send the title reference and the reason you need the plan, and we will explain the likely scope before quoting.
When you may need one
- Your title relies on an old or inaccurate plan
- A council, lender or solicitor has requested one
- Before development, consolidation or sale where boundary certainty matters
- Boundary discrepancies have been found during another survey
How it works
Assess
We review your title and historic plans and confirm a redefinition is the right tool.
Investigate
Field survey of boundary evidence and survey marks.
Prepare
Boundaries are calculated and the plan of redefinition prepared.
Lodge
The plan is prepared for lodgement, coordinated with your solicitor or conveyancer.
What you receive
- Plan of redefinition prepared for lodgement
- Boundary marks placed as required
- Supporting survey documentation
To get an accurate quote, send us:
- Property address and title reference (lot/DP)
- Why the plan is needed and who requested it
- Any correspondence from council, a lender or your solicitor
Plans of Redefinition FAQs
Is a plan of redefinition the same as a boundary survey?
No. A boundary survey marks the boundaries on site. A plan of redefinition produces a new plan of the existing land for registration.
Does it change my property size?
The purpose is to accurately define existing boundaries, not to create new land. Measured dimensions and areas may differ from an old plan; your solicitor can advise on any implications.
How long does it take?
Research, field work, plan preparation and the registration process all take time. We will outline the stages when we quote.