Consolidation Surveys in Geelong and Melbourne: What Homeowners and Developers Need to Know
If you own more than one block of land side-by-side, or you’re planning a new development that requires a larger building area for a building that crosses over a Title boundary, you may have come across the term consolidation survey. It’s a crucial step in property ownership and development, but not everyone knows what it involves or why it matters.
AGS is based in East Geelong and servicing both Geelong and metropolitan Melbourne, we regularly help homeowners, developers, and investors complete consolidation surveys. Here’s what you need to know.
What is a Consolidation Survey?
A consolidation land survey is the process of combining two or more adjoining parcels of land into one larger parcel with, one single parcel of land.
To do this, a licensed land surveyor prepares a legal document called a plan of consolidation, which is then submitted to the relevant authorities (such as Land Use Victoria) for certification and registration. Once approved, a new, unified land title is issued.
Why Would You Need a Consolidation Survey?
There are several reasons why property owners and developers in Victoria undertake consolidation surveys:
- Simplify Ownership
Managing multiple land titles can be complex and time-consuming. Consolidation merges them into one, making ownership and administration much simpler. With the Victorian State Government introduction of ‘vacant residential land tax’ you can avoid the tax if the land is included in the property of your primary place of residence. This means that if you have a house on 1 block and you own the block next door and use it as your yard then you will most likely be charges vacant land tax on the land without the house. - Facilitate Development
If you’re building a new home, residential estate, commercial development, or industrial facility, you’ll often need a larger, unified block of land. Victorian building regulations states that you cannot build a structure over a Title boundary. As a result, multiple parcels of land can be merged together to create one large parcel so a larger building can be approved by Councils to be built on the new large parcel of land. A consolidation survey provides that clear foundation for development. - Reconfigure Property Boundaries
As part of consolidation, certain easements or restrictions can be modified or removed, creating a more practical layout for your property. - Streamline Management
With one comprehensive land title instead of several, planning and compliance are easier to manage.
The Process of a Consolidation Survey
At AGS, we guide you through the process step by step:
- Survey & Site Assessment – A licensed land surveyor. Assesses whether the parcels of land can be merged either by ‘non-survey’ or by ‘survey’ guidelines. In most situations if the 2 abutting Titles mathematically ‘fit’ together then the plan can be prepared under the ‘non-survey’ guidelines.
- Plan of Consolidation – We prepare a professional plan showing the new, combined parcel of land.
- Council Certification – An application to certify a plan of consolidation is prepared by our staff and an application is submitted to Council for certification (signing). The process takes about 7 weeks to complete.
- Lodgement & Certification – The plan is submitted to Land Use Victoria for certification and registration.
- New Title Issued – Once approved, you’ll receive a new, single Certificate of Title for your consolidated property.
Consolidation Surveys in Geelong & Melbourne
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to simplify your property ownership or a developer preparing for a large-scale project, a consolidation survey is often an essential step.
Our experienced team is based in East Geelong and services clients across Geelong and metropolitan Melbourne. We work closely with you, your architect, builder, or town planner to ensure the consolidation process is smooth, accurate, and compliant with Victorian regulations.
Talk to AGS About Your Land Consolidation
If you’re considering a consolidation survey in Geelong or Melbourne, our team is here to help. We bring expert local knowledge, decades of surveying experience, and a commitment to clear, professional service.
Contact us today to discuss your project and take the first step towards simplifying your land ownership or preparing your site for development.
