Build-to-Suit Commercial Land Surveys | 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
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.
