When it comes to mapping out property details for a development project, there are several different land survey methods that may be appropriate—such as topographic or boundary surveys. However, if you’re developing or purchasing land for commercial development, you’ll want to invest in American Land Title Association (ALTA) and National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) surveys to ensure your reports are thoroughly detailed and accurate. To better illustrate how this industry-standard practice works, here is a quick guide to what ALTA/NSPS land surveying involves and when it’s needed.

What Are ALTA/NSPS Surveys?

These surveys follow rigid standards established by their respective organizations. Title companies and lenders will use this service to acquire the necessary title insurance for a development project. The findings from these surveys may influence development, financial, and legal decisions.

This land surveying method is incredibly comprehensive and is organized to detail all of the features of the area. To complete this study, licensed surveyors will research the land’s history to retrace the boundary lines back to the original parcel of land. They will also research all easements and improvements to the property, outlining all utility and road access points, building locations, fences, and possible encroachments.

When Should You Get an ALTA/NSPS Survey?

Buying or Selling Land

The primary reason for this type of survey is to establish a clear title history. As a buyer, this information can help you avoid a problematic purchase—such as when a property is attached to forged deeds or unsettled liens. It will also help you acquire title insurance to protect your investment.

If you’re a seller, you might also use this survey data to gain a better sense of the property value so that you can make sure the offers you receive are fair.

Planning New Construction

ALTA surveys are necessary to determine if a commercial construction plan is feasible. For example, if the data reveals that the land is on a floodplain or tied to a zoning restriction, you may not be able to build using current plans.

Possibility of Encroachment

When neighboring properties invade a land’s boundary lines, they are making an encroachment. Small encroachments can usually be resolved by granting the other party an easement. However, larger encroachments may require you to take legal action to establish clear boundary lines so you can move forward with a development plan.

Whether you’re interested in purchasing commercial real estate or developing land, Berling Engineering in Covington, KY, has the resources to help. This team of licensed professionals is well-versed in current ALTA/NSPS land surveying requirements and will carefully assess the property in question and provide detailed reports to help you confidently move forward with your project. To learn more about how these specialists can assist with site development, visit this civil engineering firm online or call (859) 331-9191.