Demonstrating ALTA Land Surveys: A Comprehensive Guide

Purchasing or developing commercial real estate involves several critical decisions and one of the most important aspects is obtaining an accurate land survey. A comprehensive land survey provides a detailed report of a property's boundaries, easements and encumbrances, which is necessary for avoiding future boundary disputes or conflicts. That is where an ALTA/NSPS land survey comes in.

The American Land Title Association and the National Society of Professional Surveyors set the standards for conducting this type of survey. It is designed specifically for commercial properties, providing a level of detail not available in a standard boundary survey. Keep scrolling to know when to use an ALTA land survey, what information it provides and why it is a critical tool for commercial property owners.

ALTA Land Survey: A Powerful Tool For Commercial Real Estate

An ALTA land surveying service involves a type of land survey conducted according to the standards set by ALTA and NSPS. This survey is used for commercial properties and provides a detailed report of the property's boundaries, easements, encroachments and other relevant information. An ALTA survey is much more detailed than a standard boundary survey and includes various additional elements that lenders and title companies require.

When You Absolutely Need Such A Survey

  • Commercial properties typically require ALTA land surveys when planning for a new development or change in ownership.

  • You also need it for refinancing or securing a loan on commercial property.

  • An ALTA survey can determine the location of easements, rights-of-way and other encumbrances that may affect the property's use.

Survey Or Not Survey? When This Survey Is Not The Answer

While this survey is essential for commercial properties, it may not be necessary for residential properties. Residential properties typically have fewer encumbrances and easements than commercial properties. Additionally, the cost of an ALTA survey can be significantly higher than a standard boundary survey, so it may not be cost-effective for smaller properties.

ALTA Land Survey: Unlocking The Secret World Of Commercial Property Ownership

An ALTA survey provides a wealth of information about a property. Some of the most critical elements included in an ALTA survey include:

  • Property Boundaries:

The survey provides a detailed report of the property's boundaries, including monuments, markers and other relevant information.

  • Easements:

It identifies any easements that affect the property, including the location and width of the easement.

  • Encroachments:

It looks for any encroachments on the property, including buildings, fences and other structures on the property.

  • Rights-of-Way:

An ALTA/NSPS land survey identifies any rights-of-way that affect the property, including the location and width of the right-of-way.

  • Zoning:

The survey includes information about the property's classification and any zoning restrictions that may affect the property.

  • Flood Zone:

It also includes information about the property's location within a flood zone and any flood hazards that may affect the property.

Carroll Surveying And Mapping: Your Trusted Partner For ALTA Surveys

Carroll Surveying and Mapping can provide accurate and reliable surveying services if you require an ALTA survey for your commercial property. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we can ensure your ALTA survey is to the highest standards. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule your ALTA survey.