ALTA / NSPS Land Title Surveys

An ALTA / NSPS Land Title Survey is a detailed boundary survey performed according to national standards established by the American Land Title Association and the National Society of Professional Surveyors. It is typically required for commercial real estate transactions and provides lenders, title companies, attorneys, and buyers with a comprehensive view of the property.

If you are buying, refinancing, or developing commercial property, an ALTA survey helps identify boundary lines, easements, encroachments, access points, and other title-related matters that could impact ownership or development.

What Is an ALTA Survey?

An ALTA survey builds on a boundary survey but includes additional research and documentation tied to the property’s title commitment. It provides:

Precise boundary lines and property corners
Easements, rights of way, and access points
Improvements and structures on the property
Encroachments that may effecting the property
Zoning information when requested
Table A: Optional items selected by the client

The goal is to provide a standardized, nationally recognized survey that satisfies lender and title company requirements.

When Is an ALTA Survey Required?

ALTA surveys are commonly required for:

Commercial property purchases
Refinancing or lender transactions
Multi-tenant developments
Large-scale land acquisitions
Properties with complex easements or access concerns

Most lenders and title companies require an ALTA survey before issuing title insurance for commercial transactions.

ALTA Survey vs Other Survey Types

Survey Type	Purpose	Level of Detail	Common Use
ALTA / NSPS Survey	Commercial transaction compliance	Very detailed, title driven	Lender and title requirements
Boundary Survey	Define legal property lines	Define legal property lines	Fencing, construction limits
Topographic Survey	Capture elevations and terrain	Elevation focused	Elevation focused
Construction Staking	Layout improvements	Field positioning only	During construction

What Makes an ALTA Survey More Detailed?

Boundary Survey → ALTA Survey → ALTA + Table A Enhancements

As complexity increases, so does the level of research, documentation, and mapping detail. Table A options may include items such as parking counts, building heights, utility locations, or flood zone classification, depending on transaction requirements.

ALTA surveys require close coordination between the surveyor, title company, lender, and client to ensure compliance with current standards.

Our ALTA Survey Process

Title Commitment Review

1.We analyze the provided title documents.

Scope Confirmation

We confirm the required Table A items.

Field Work

We measure boundaries, improvements, and visible evidence.

Research & Analysis

4.We reconcile title exceptions and easements.

Final Survey Delivery

5.We provide a signed and sealed survey meeting ALTA / NSPS standards.

We work efficiently to meet closing deadlines while maintaining strict compliance with national standards.

Why Choose a Professional ALTA Survey Provider?

An ALTA survey must meet precise standards. Choosing an experienced provider ensures:

Compliance with current ALTA / NSPS requirements
Accurate depiction of easements and encroachments
Reduced transaction risk
Fewer title objections or closing delays
Clear communication with lenders and attorneys

In commercial real estate, precision and timing matter. An accurate ALTA survey protects your investment.

FAQs

FAQs About ALTA Surveys

What does ALTA stand for?

ALTA stands for the American Land Title Association. ALTA / NSPS surveys follow nationally recognized standards for commercial transactions.

Is an ALTA survey required for residential property?

Typically, ALTA surveys are required for commercial properties. Residential transactions usually require a standard boundary survey unless otherwise specified.

What are Table A items?

Table A items are optional additional services selected by the client or lender, such as parking space counts, zoning details, or utility mapping.

How long does an ALTA survey take?

Timeline depends on property size, complexity, title review requirements, and coordination with stakeholders. Contact us for a project specific estimate.

What documents do you need to start?

We require the title commitment, legal description, and any lender specified Table A requirements to begin.

Secure Your Commercial Transaction With Confidence

An ALTA / NSPS Land Title Survey provides the detailed documentation lenders and title companies rely on. Protect your investment and avoid delays with a professionally prepared survey.