As-Built Surveys for Commercial Renovation | South Texas Surveying
"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Blueprints are often outdated or missing.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 Our as-built survey revealed a drainage slope issue and outdated parking striping that didn’t meet ADA standards—allowing the team to address both in the permit application and avoid costly delays.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.
