"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

Why Every Commercial Renovation Should Start with an As-Built Survey

Before You Build It Better, You Need to Know What’s There

Commercial buildings are constantly evolving—new tenants move in, floor plans change, parking gets reconfigured, or HVAC and plumbing upgrades are planned. But before you pick up a hammer, the smartest move you can make is hiring a professional surveyor to conduct an as-built survey.

At South Texas Surveying, we work with commercial property managers, owners, and contractors across Houston, Tomball, The Woodlands, and beyond to provide the accurate documentation needed to renovate, expand, or reconfigure safely and legally.

What Is an As-Built Survey?

An as-built survey documents the exact locations of structures, utilities, improvements, and site features as they currently exist—not just how they were originally designed. This includes:

• Building footprints

• Sidewalks, driveways, and curbs

• Parking lot layout and striping

• ADA-compliant ramps and access

• Utility lines and drainage systems

• Fence lines, light poles, and signage

This detailed map becomes the foundation for any renovation, improvement, or leasing strategy.

Why Property Managers Need As-Built Surveys

✅ Avoid Costly Surprises

Blueprints are often outdated or missing. A survey shows what's really there—before contractors start digging.

✅ Support Tenant Build-Outs

Help your tenants and their architects design improvements that meet code and don’t encroach on setbacks or easements.

✅ Stay Code Compliant

Ensure ADA ramps, fire lanes, and parking meet current zoning, accessibility, and fire code standards.

✅ Streamline Permitting

City officials often request as-builts before approving new work, especially in older or mixed-use properties.

✅ Simplify Property Resale or Refinance

Buyers and lenders prefer up-to-date site data, which increases property value and reduces due diligence delays.

Use Case: Office Renovation in Midtown Houston

A property management group was preparing to renovate a two-story office building in Midtown Houston. With no accurate records of existing utilities or parking layouts, they brought in South Texas Surveying. Our as-built survey revealed a drainage slope issue and outdated parking striping that didn’t meet ADA standards—allowing the team to address both in the permit application and avoid costly delays.

When to Order an As-Built Survey

• Before interior or exterior renovations

• During tenant improvements (TI)

• Prior to a sale or refinance

• When resolving code violations

• For insurance documentation after storm damage or fire

• As part of property management records

Where We Provide As-Built Surveys

• Houston – Downtown, Greenway Plaza, Midtown, Heights

• Spring, Tomball, and Cypress

• The Woodlands and Conroe

• Pearland, Pasadena, and Baytown

• Katy, Sugar Land, and Missouri City

Why Choose South Texas Surveying

• ✅ Trusted by commercial owners and property managers across Texas

• ✅ Fast, reliable service with tight turnarounds

• ✅ Experience with ADA, drainage, and zoning compliance

• ✅ Professional, clear deliverables ready for use by engineers, city officials, and tenants

• ✅ Deep understanding of Houston-area permitting and site planning

Renovating or managing a commercial property without an accurate site survey is like building on guesswork. With an as-built survey from South Texas Surveying, you get clarity, compliance, and confidence—so your next project starts on solid ground.