Buying Land in Zanzibar: Survey Due Diligence Guide

Why survey due diligence matters

A Google Maps pin, fence line or statement from a seller should not automatically be treated as proof of a plot's legal boundary or development suitability. The information available for the land should be reviewed and, where appropriate, checked on the ground by the relevant professionals.

Survey work can help provide measured information about the site, but legal ownership, land rights, planning permission and other statutory matters may require separate verification by the appropriate authorities and qualified advisers.

Useful checks before buying or developing land

1. Collect the available land documents

Ask for the documents and survey information relating to the plot. These provide a starting point for determining what can be checked and what additional work may be required.

2. Identify the plot on the ground

If the relevant plot positions need to be checked, a boundary verification survey may be appropriate. The exact procedure depends on the available records and purpose of the assignment.

3. Understand the physical site

If you intend to design or build, a topographical survey can provide measured information such as site levels, contours and relevant existing features for the design team.

4. Consider access and development constraints

Road access, drainage, existing structures, neighbouring occupation, terrain and other physical conditions can affect a proposed development. Planning, environmental and statutory requirements should be confirmed with the appropriate professionals or authorities where applicable.

5. Match the survey to your next step

If construction drawings are ready, the next survey requirement may be construction setting out. Larger or infrastructure-related works may require engineering survey support.

What to send when asking us to check a plot

Send the Google Maps pin, approximate plot size, copies or clear photos of the land/survey documents available, and tell us whether you are considering purchase, boundary confirmation, architectural design or construction. We can then determine the relevant survey scope before preparing a quotation.