What Is an ALTA Survey and When Do You Need One?
Before closing on a commercial property, you’ll likely hear your lender, title company, or attorney mention an ALTA Survey. For many buyers, this term raises questions — what exactly is it, and why is it required?
In short, an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey is the gold standard for property due diligence. It’s a detailed, standardized survey designed to give everyone involved in a real estate transaction—especially lenders and title insurers—a clear picture of the property’s boundaries, improvements, and potential risks.
At Global Land Surveying, we provide accurate, lender-approved ALTA Surveys throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex and across the Texas Triangle. Our goal is simple: help clients close on commercial properties confidently and without costly surprises.
What Is an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey?
An ALTA/NSPS Survey (short for American Land Title Association / National Society of Professional Surveyors) is a comprehensive boundary and improvement survey that follows national standards. These standards ensure surveys are consistent and reliable—no matter what state the property is in.
An ALTA Survey typically includes:
- Boundary lines and legal descriptions
- Easements and rights-of-way
- Encroachments or Protrusions
- Boundary overlaps and gaps
- Building and improvement locations
- Access points and adjoining property data
- Parking counts
- Zoning and flood zone classifications (if applicable)
This level of detail goes far beyond a basic boundary survey, making it essential for commercial and industrial properties, multi-tract developments, and lender-financed transactions.
Who Typically Needs an ALTA Survey?
While residential homeowners rarely need one, ALTA Surveys are standard practice for:
- Commercial property buyers and developers
- Lenders and title companies before issuing loans or title insurance
- Attorneys and investors managing high-value real estate transactions
- Engineers and Architects
In the DFW area and across Texas, lenders often require an ALTA Survey before closing on commercial or industrial properties. This ensures that all title exceptions, easements, and access issues are properly documented before construction or ownership transfer.
Why ALTA Surveys Matter
An ALTA Survey isn’t just a formality — it’s a safeguard.
Here’s what it helps prevent:
- Hidden title issues – Identify easements or encroachments that could interfere with development.
- Boundary disputes – Verify property lines before any structures or fences are built.
- Costly rework – Discover site constraints early, before construction begins.
- Closing delays – Provide certified, lender-ready data that speeds up the transaction process.
Example:
A developer in Frisco once discovered, through their ALTA Survey, that a neighboring utility easement crossed into their planned parking area. Because it was caught early, they adjusted the site plan without delaying construction — saving time, money, and future conflict.
How the ALTA Survey Process Works
Every project begins with communication. Here’s what you can expect when you work with GLS:
- Project setup & scope – We discuss your property, transaction needs, and Table A items (optional items such as zoning, topography, or flood data).
- Research & fieldwork – Our licensed surveyors gather on-site data and review historical deeds, plats, and records.
- Draft review – We compile findings into a clear, accurate survey for review.
- Final certification – You receive a signed, sealed, and fully compliant ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey ready for your title company or lender.
We prioritize accuracy, clear communication, and on-time delivery — so you can move confidently toward closing.
Choosing the Right Survey Partner
When dealing with commercial property, precision and reliability matter. With years of experience supporting developers, lenders, and builders across North Texas, GLS delivers the accuracy and professionalism that large-scale projects demand.
Our licensed surveyors provide end-to-end service — from boundary research to site mapping and construction support. Whether you’re buying a single warehouse or developing a multi-acre commercial tract, we’ll ensure your survey is complete, compliant, and delivered on schedule.
Ready to Schedule Your ALTA Survey?
If you’re preparing to buy, refinance, or develop commercial property in the Dallas–Fort Worth area or anywhere across the Texas Triangle, our team is here to help.
Call Global Land Surveying today or request a free quote to get started.
Let’s make your next transaction seamless, accurate, and ready for closing.