"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

What Is an ALTA Survey Checklist for Commercial Property?

When purchasing commercial real estate, lenders and title companies often request an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey.

But many buyers aren’t sure what information this type of survey actually includes.

Understanding the ALTA survey checklist helps buyers prepare for the due diligence process and know what documentation will be provided.

Property Boundaries and Legal Description

One of the most important elements of an ALTA survey is confirming that the physical property matches the legal description recorded in deeds and title documents.

This includes:

• Boundary lines

• Property corner locations

• Dimensions of the parcel

• Adjacent property relationships

This verification ensures the property being financed and insured is accurately defined.

Buildings and Site Improvements

ALTA surveys document improvements located on the property.

These may include:

• Buildings

• Parking areas

• Driveways

• Sidewalks

• Fences

Showing these improvements helps identify whether structures are properly located within the property boundaries.

Easements and Rights-of-Way

Commercial properties often include easements that allow utilities or neighboring properties certain access rights.

An ALTA survey typically identifies:

• Utility easements

• Drainage easements

• Access easements

• Public rights-of-way

Understanding these easements is important for development planning and property use.

Access to Public Roads

Lenders and title companies want confirmation that a commercial property has legal access.

An ALTA survey helps verify:

• Entry points to the property

• Connections to public roads

• Shared driveways or access agreements

This ensures the property can be used as intended.

Potential Encroachments

An encroachment occurs when a structure crosses a property boundary or easement area.

ALTA surveys help identify issues such as:

• Fences crossing lot lines

• Buildings near property boundaries

• Structures within easement areas

Discovering these issues before closing allows buyers to address them early.

Bottom Line

An ALTA survey provides a detailed overview of a commercial property and helps lenders, buyers, and title companies verify key information before closing.

At South Texas Surveying, we help Houston commercial buyers obtain accurate ALTA surveys that support smooth real estate transactions.