Short answer
Usually not for the loan. HUD says FHA doesn't require a survey, though a lender may, and Fannie Mae handles boundary risk mainly through the title insurance policy. A survey can still be worth it, especially for land, rural lots, fences or sheds near a line, or a planned addition or pool. In NH, only a licensed land surveyor can do one.
Does my mortgage require a survey?
HUD's Handbook 4000.1 says a survey is not required by FHA, and a lender can charge a survey fee only when the lender requires one. For conventional loans, Fannie Mae's Selling Guide focuses on the lender's title insurance policy: Fannie won't buy a loan with an unacceptable survey exception on title. Where surveys aren't commonly required, the lender gets a title endorsement covering certain survey matters instead. So whether you're asked for one depends on your lender and the property.
When is a survey worth getting anyway?
- You're buying land or a rural lot, or the boundary markers are unclear.
- A fence, shed, driveway or garage sits close to the line, or a neighbor's does.
- You plan to add on, build an ADU, put in a pool or install a new septic system.
- The deed's description is old or vague, or the property has easements or a shared driveway.
See easements, encroachments and shared driveways and buying a home with land.
How does a survey relate to title insurance?
Title policies often list exceptions for matters a survey would show, such as boundary lines, encroachments and easements. A survey can help the title company decide whether to remove or narrow those exceptions in your owner's policy. Ask your closing attorney or title company what your owner's policy will cover with and without a survey. See owner's title insurance in NH.
Who can do a survey in NH, and where do I find old ones?
Under RSA 310-A:53, practicing land surveying in New Hampshire without a license is a misdemeanor, so hire a licensed land surveyor. Before you do, ask the seller for any existing survey or plan, and check your county registry of deeds, which keeps recorded plans. See how to look up a deed and plans. If you're unsure whether you need a survey, ask your real estate agent or attorney when you make your offer, so it fits inside your due diligence period.
Sources
- HUD Single Family Housing Policy Handbook 4000.1, Update 18 (August 2026), Property Survey fee
- Fannie Mae Selling Guide, B7-2-05, Title Exceptions and Impediments (10/07/2026)
- NH RSA 310-A:53, Land surveyors: general provisions
Checked November 2, 2026. Rules and dates change, so confirm current details before you rely on them.
General information only, not tax or legal advice. Program availability, eligibility and terms vary by lender and are subject to change and to underwriting approval. Not a commitment to lend.