What is an ALTA survey?
An ALTA (American Land Title Association) Land Title Survey goes beyond a basic boundary survey. It follows a nationally accepted protocol so that lenders, title companies and property owners in different states can interpret the data with confidence. Local rules vary; ALTA standards create a common benchmark everyone understands.
Common use cases for ALTA surveys
- Commercial buildings and sites
- Multi-family developments
- Real estate deals spanning multiple states
- Refinancing and title insurance requirements
Because ALTA/NSPS is a national standard, it gives all parties (owners, lenders, insurers) confidence even when they are in different places.
Time and cost. ALTA surveys require more resources and time than a conventional boundary survey because of documentation requirements, accuracy checks and standardized procedures. They can run 50% to 200% more than a comparable boundary survey. The Table A optional specifications define additional tasks that affect both cost and duration; Item 1 (placing monuments) is one of the most commonly requested.
Why ALTA surveys are often preferred
Title insurers, lenders and real estate professionals require ALTA surveys for complex or large transactions. Even when not strictly required, working to ALTA standards gives your team more confidence and clarity.
Seven advantages of the ALTA survey standards
- Uniform nationwide standard. A consistent scope of work across states makes it simpler for title companies and insurers to issue policies and manage exposure.
- Encroachments and easements clearly shown. The survey plots recorded easements and potential encroachments so every party can make informed decisions. Whether something is legally an encroachment is a question of law, but it is on the map.
- Familiarity among professionals. Attorneys, lenders, surveyors and title professionals all know ALTA requirements, which simplifies transactions.
- Title research integration. The surveyor receives the title commitment before finalizing the survey, which keeps boundaries, easements and other details precise.
- Table A customization. Optional items such as flood zones and utility locations can be requested up front, preventing changes later.
- Removal of title exceptions. A completed ALTA survey lets many standard title exceptions be addressed or removed, reducing insurer liability and lender risk.
- Consistent, updated standards. The ALTA/NSPS requirements have been in use since 1988 and are regularly revised for new technology (including drone LiDAR), changes in real estate law and modern practice.
ALTA surveys and drone LiDAR mapping
We integrate land surveying drones and LiDAR into the ALTA workflow, especially on large or remote properties:
- Faster data collection. Drones scan wide areas quickly.
- High-resolution elevation and imagery. More detail on terrain, structures and site features.
- Access to difficult areas. Steep or hazardous zones are captured safely.
Drone data combined with ground-truth control produces ALTA-compliant surveys with enhanced accuracy and speed.
ALTA survey cost: what affects it
ALTA surveys cost more than a standard boundary survey because of the additional documentation, standards and Table A duties. The main cost drivers are the number and complexity of Table A items requested, property size, terrain and site complexity, and the availability of existing documents and site access. To keep cost efficient, provide the title documents and your Table A requests early. It prevents surprises later.
Ready to get started?
If you are working on a commercial or multi-family property, a refinance or a cross-state transaction, an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey gives you clarity and trust. We deliver licensed, ALTA-compliant surveys with state-licensed surveyors and FAA Part 107 certified pilots, nationwide. Call (980) 553-7107 or request a quote and we will guide you through the requirements.