Why Buyers Shouldn’t Rely on the Seller’s Old Survey

"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 Commercial Buyers Shouldn’t Rely on the Seller’s Old Survey

At some point in almost every commercial deal, someone says:
“The seller already has a survey.”

It sounds helpful.
It sounds efficient.
It’s often a trap.

Old surveys tell old stories

A survey is a snapshot in time. And commercial properties change more than people realize.

Since that old survey was completed:

• Parking may have been reconfigured

• Utilities may have been added or relocated

• Fences or signage may have moved

• Easements may have been recorded

• Roads or right-of-way lines may have shifted

That old survey might still look official — but it may no longer be accurate.

Sellers and buyers don’t have the same risk

A seller’s survey was created to protect them at a different moment in time.

As a buyer, you’re taking on:

• Future liability

• Financing risk

• Tenant risk

• Long-term ownership risk

Relying on someone else’s outdated documentation means inheriting blind spots.

Lenders and title companies usually won’t rely on it anyway

Even if everyone agrees the old survey “looks fine,” lenders and title companies often require:

• A current date

• Updated certifications

• Confirmation of existing conditions

At that point, you’ve lost time — and sometimes leverage.

Surveys aren’t about trust — they’re about clarity

This isn’t about assuming the seller is hiding something. Most sellers aren’t.

It’s about recognizing that commercial land doesn’t freeze in place.
The only way to know what you’re buying today is with a survey created today.

Bottom line

Old surveys explain the past.
New surveys protect your future.

At South Texas Surveying, we help Texas commercial buyers get current, reliable survey data — so decisions are based on reality, not assumptions.