Subdivision turns one parcel into two or more parcels.
The process is more than measuring smaller plots on the ground. The new layout has to move through the relevant planning, survey and registration steps.
1. Check whether subdivision is allowed
Before paying for survey work, confirm the planning and land-use requirements that apply to the property.
Minimum plot sizes, access and other planning conditions can affect what subdivision is possible.
2. Obtain required consent
The consent depends on the property and transaction.
For certain agricultural land, Land Control Board consent is a legal requirement. The State Department for Lands specifically lists sales, leases, transfers and subdivisions among transactions for which LCB consent may be required.
See Land Control Board consent.
3. Survey the proposed parcels
A licensed surveyor prepares the survey work needed to define the new parcels.
The layout should account for matters such as access and the dimensions approved through the planning process.
4. Process the mutation
The State Department for Lands lists mutation processing requirements including the mutation form, consent to subdivide, amended RIM and original title.
For leasehold property, rent apportionment may also be required.
5. Update the land records
Once the subdivision is properly processed, the new parcels can be reflected in the land-registration system.
A buyer should be able to trace the plot being sold to the new registered parcel rather than only to a marketing layout.
Buying from an ongoing subdivision
Ask the seller:
- Has consent been issued?
- Has the survey been completed?
- Has the mutation been processed?
- What is the new parcel number?
- Is the access road part of the approved layout?
- When will the title be available?
Do not confuse a physical beacon with completed legal subdivision.
For the document itself, see what a mutation form is.