LANDSHILOH · DUE DILIGENCE
An evidence matrix links a property claim to the record, investigation and reviewer capable of evaluating it. It helps prevent a photograph, a map or a favorable conversation from being used to answer a different question.
Match each claim to evidence that can answer it
| Claim to investigate | Useful evidence | Important limit |
|---|---|---|
| There is legal access | Relevant title materials, recorded instruments and professional review | A visible road does not settle the right to use it |
| A dwelling will fit | Specific use description, land-use review, constraints plan and required site investigations | Gross acreage is not an approved building envelope |
| Water is available | Source and use-right review, provider response or well evaluation, as appropriate | A well record does not establish every supply or legal question |
| The project fits the budget | Comparable written scopes, timing assumptions and ownership-cost scenarios | An unpriced item is not zero |
Separate received information from reviewed findings
Begin with the material statements used in the proposed purchase or project. For each, state why it matters and identify what would support a conclusion for that specific decision. Include the complete source, its date, limitations and the person responsible for interpretation. Avoid using a generic document-received checkbox as the final status.
After review, record the finding in plain language and retain any conditions. If a document supports only part of a claim, split the question rather than marking the entire matter resolved. For example, documented route rights and a road’s practical condition need separate rows. Review the matrix again when the proposal changes or new evidence conflicts with an earlier assumption.
Working record
Use one row per material claim. Keep the underlying documents accessible to the people reviewing them.
- Claim and decision affected
- Evidence required
- Source and completeness
- Reviewer’s conclusion and limits
- Further work or condition
Illustrative example
A seller supplies a well log in response to a water question. The matrix records receipt of the historical log while leaving present equipment condition, demand suitability and relevant rights as separate investigations. One useful record has not silently answered every water question.
Fictional example for explaining the process, not a listing, valuation or approval.
Should all documents receive equal weight?
No. Evaluate purpose, scope, currency and professional interpretation. A recent marketing statement and a complete technical report serve different roles and should not be treated as equivalent evidence.
General education from LandShiloh. Apply current records and appropriate professional review to the particular parcel, jurisdiction, proposal and transaction. This article does not supply an approval, legal opinion, financing commitment or property certification.