"Texas, often referred to as the Lone Star State, is a thriving hub for economic growth and innovation, making it an attractive destination for commercial real estate investment." - Chris Evans

Build-to-Suit Commercial Projects: Why Accurate Land Surveys Are Your First Step

A Custom Build Comes with Custom Risks

Build-to-suit commercial projects—where a property is designed and constructed to meet a specific tenant’s needs—are booming across Houston, Baytown, The Woodlands, and other fast-growing Texas markets. From distribution centers to corporate headquarters, these projects are tailored for efficiency and profitability.

But with customization comes complexity, and even a small surveying error can cause cost overruns, construction delays, or lease renegotiations. That’s why an accurate, project-specific land survey is essential before design work begins.

Why Build-to-Suit Projects Depend on Surveys

These projects typically require:

• Exact site measurements to align with tenant space requirements

• Precise grading and drainage data to support unique building footprints

• Easement and setback verification to avoid costly redesigns

• Utility mapping to ensure uninterrupted operations

• Compliance checks for zoning, access, and environmental regulations

Without accurate survey data, developers risk breaking ground on a site that can’t legally or practically accommodate the tenant’s plans.

Types of Surveys for Build-to-Suit Projects

📏 Boundary Survey

Confirms the exact legal property lines and ensures the planned footprint fits within them.

🌐 Topographic Survey

Provides critical elevation, slope, and drainage information for site design and grading.

📋 ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey

Combines title, boundary, and improvement data for lender, tenant, and permitting use.

🛠️ Construction Staking

Translates the approved plans into precise on-site reference points for builders.

Case Study: Distribution Center in Baytown

A logistics company planned a 200,000-square-foot build-to-suit facility. Our surveys identified a buried utility line crossing the planned loading dock area. By catching it before construction, the developer adjusted the layout—saving over $100,000 in relocation costs and keeping the project on schedule.

Benefits of Early Surveying in Build-to-Suit Projects

• Keeps construction on schedule by avoiding site surprises

• Protects budget from unexpected redesign or utility work

• Improves tenant satisfaction by delivering as promised

• Speeds up permitting with compliant, complete documentation

Why Choose South Texas Surveying?

• 🧠 Extensive experience in high-value commercial projects

• 📄 Lender- and tenant-ready survey documentation

• ⏱️ Fast, accurate data delivery for tight build timelines

• 📍 Serving Houston, Harris County, and surrounding Texas markets

In build-to-suit commercial development, the site sets the stage for success. With a professional survey from South Texas Surveying, you’ll have the accurate, actionable data needed to turn a custom vision into a profitable reality.