ALTA Land Title Survey

What is an ALTA Survey?

An ALTA (American Land Title Association) Land Title Survey is a comprehensive property survey that meets strict national standards set by the American Land Title Association and the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS). Unlike a standard boundary survey, an ALTA survey goes much deeper—identifying not just property lines, but easements, encroachments, utilities, and other features that could affect property ownership or use. ALTA surveys are typically required by lenders, title companies, and commercial real estate buyers before financing or purchasing property.

Why ALTA Surveys Matter

When you're buying commercial property or securing financing, lenders demand certainty. An ALTA survey provides that certainty by documenting everything that could affect your property's value or use. It protects you from discovering hidden easements, utility conflicts, or boundary disputes after you've already invested in the property. Title companies rely on ALTA surveys to issue title insurance. Without one, you could inherit legal and financial problems that cost far more than the survey itself.

ALTA Survey vs. Boundary Survey

A boundary survey identifies property lines and corners. An ALTA survey does all that PLUS documents easements (like utility lines crossing your property), encroachments (structures from neighboring properties extending onto yours), improvements, utilities, and zoning information. ALTA surveys are more detailed and more costly, but they're the gold standard for commercial real estate and lender requirements.

When You Need an ALTA Survey

• Commercial real estate transactions - Most commercial lenders require ALTA surveys before financing.
• Title insurance - Title companies often require ALTA surveys to issue policies.
• Property disputes - When boundary or easement questions arise.
• Development projects - Before subdividing or developing raw land.
• Refinancing - Some lenders require updated ALTA surveys for refinancing.

Our ALTA Survey Process

At RAM Engineering, we handle every aspect of your ALTA survey with precision and professionalism. We begin with thorough research—examining property records, easements, and historical documents. Next, our licensed surveyors conduct a detailed field survey using advanced GPS and surveying equipment. We document every feature that could affect your property's title or use. Finally, we prepare a comprehensive survey that meets all ALTA/NSPS standards. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and answer any questions about what we're finding.

View our other Land Surveying services and Civil Engineering services.