Category 1A Surveys for Texas Commercial Real Estate | 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
What Is a Category 1A Survey—and When Do You Need One in Texas?
If you're working on a commercial transaction in Texas, chances are you’ve heard the term Category 1A survey—especially from title companies or attorneys. But what is it exactly, and when is it required?
At South Texas Surveying, we regularly perform Category 1A Land Title Surveys for commercial clients in Houston, Sugar Land, Katy, The Woodlands, and beyond. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Category 1A Survey?
A Category 1A survey is a detailed land title survey required by many Texas title companies and lenders during commercial real estate transactions. It’s governed by the Texas Society of Professional Surveyors (TSPS) and provides comprehensive information about:
Property boundaries
Easements and encroachments
Improvements (buildings, fences, driveways)
Access points and rights of way
Utilities, visible evidence of use
Zoning lines and setbacks (if requested)
It’s similar to an ALTA/NSPS survey but follows Texas-specific standards.
When Do You Need a Category 1A Survey?
You typically need a 1A survey when:
Purchasing or refinancing commercial property
Developing raw land for business use
Working with a title company or lender that requires it for closing
Resolving boundary disputes or easement issues
We see frequent demand for 1A surveys in areas like:
Conroe and Magnolia – new business parks and industrial sites
Midtown Houston – commercial infill and redevelopment
Baytown – energy and logistics projects
Pearland and Manvel – retail strip centers and pad sites
Why Title Companies Trust Category 1A Surveys
Category 1A surveys help title companies insure against risks like encroachments or access issues. They’re often used to:
Support title insurance
Reveal potential legal issues before closing
Assist in zoning compliance or permitting
Clarify boundaries in areas with outdated or missing plats
For deals that involve complex ownership, multiple parcels, or shared access agreements, a 1A survey brings clarity and protects all parties involved.
Choose a Surveyor Who Knows the Process
Category 1A surveys require precision, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of title company requirements. At South Texas Surveying, we work closely with attorneys, brokers, and title professionals across the Houston area to keep deals on track and closings smooth.
Whether you’re developing in Spring, closing on a retail center in Pasadena, or refinancing an industrial property in Stafford, we’re ready to deliver.
