"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 Land Title Survey and Why Is It Critical for Commercial Real Estate in Texas?

The Gold Standard for Commercial Property Transactions

When buying, selling, or refinancing commercial property—especially large, high-value assets—accuracy and transparency are essential. That’s why many lenders, title companies, and investors require an ALTA Land Title Survey before closing.

At South Texas Surveying, we specialize in delivering ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys that meet rigorous national standards, providing peace of mind for commercial real estate transactions across Houston, The Woodlands, Katy, Conroe, Pasadena, and the rest of Texas.

What Is an ALTA Survey?

An ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey is a highly detailed boundary survey created to meet the standards set by the American Land Title Association (ALTA) and the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS).

This survey provides a comprehensive picture of a property's:

• Boundary lines and corners

• Easements and rights-of-way

• Improvements (buildings, fences, pavement)

• Access points and adjoining roads

• Utilities, hydrants, manholes, poles, and overhead lines

• Zoning classifications and setback lines (if requested)

• Flood zone identification

• Encroachments or potential title issues

Who Needs an ALTA Survey?

An ALTA survey is commonly required by:

• Commercial real estate buyers

• National or institutional lenders

• Title insurance companies

• Attorneys handling large land deals

• Developers acquiring multi-parcel sites

• REITs, franchise operators, and multi-site investors

Whether you're closing on a distribution facility in Baytown, a medical office in The Woodlands, or a retail site in Sugar Land, an ALTA survey ensures you're protected from legal or financial risk.

How Is an ALTA Survey Different from a Category 1A Survey?

• A Category 1A survey is based on Texas state standards (TSPS), often used in in-state commercial deals.

• An ALTA survey follows national standards, making it the preferred choice for out-of-state lenders, large institutional deals, and national title companies.

If your transaction involves national funding or multiple stakeholders, an ALTA survey is usually the safest bet.

Common Projects That Require ALTA Surveys in Houston

• Multifamily housing developments

• Big-box retail stores and franchises

• Industrial parks and warehouses

• Medical and office complexes

• Hotels and hospitality projects

• Institutional investments (schools, banks, and infrastructure)

Real-World Example: A Multifamily Investment in Cypress

An out-of-state investor was purchasing a multifamily site in Cypress, Texas. Their lender required an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey to confirm access, verify utility easements, and document adjacent property encroachments.

South Texas Surveying delivered the complete ALTA survey, coordinated with the title company, and met lender standards—allowing the deal to close without delays.

Why ALTA Surveys Are Worth the Investment

While ALTA surveys require more detail and documentation than a basic boundary survey, they help you:

• Avoid legal disputes and title issues

• Ensure full compliance with lender requirements

• Confirm access and easement rights

• Support zoning and planning applications

• Reduce risk for all parties involved

Where We Provide ALTA Surveys in Texas

We serve clients across:

• Houston Metro (including Midtown, Heights, East End, and Energy Corridor)

• Montgomery County – Conroe, Magnolia, The Woodlands

• Fort Bend County – Sugar Land, Rosenberg, Fulshear

• Harris County – Katy, Cypress, Spring, Pasadena

• And statewide, on request

Why Choose South Texas Surveying for Your ALTA Survey?

• ✅ Extensive experience with commercial and institutional properties

• ✅ Fast delivery and clear communication with all stakeholders

• ✅ ALTA-compliant survey reports accepted by national lenders and title insurers

• ✅ Coordination with engineers, attorneys, title officers, and developers

• ✅ Detailed and reliable mapping to support due diligence and closing timelines

If you're investing in or developing commercial property in Texas, don’t let uncertainty derail your deal. A professional ALTA Land Title Survey from South Texas Surveying provides the documentation and assurance you need to move forward confidently.