An ALTA survey is the most detailed form of survey available. ALTA’s are generally used in the transfer of ownership of commercial property, but may be used in other situations as well.The American Land Title Association (ALTA) and the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) developed the guidelines defining an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey, or ALTA Survey.To begin with, an ALTA Survey is a monumented land survey; however, all improvements located on the tract of land must also be located in relation to the boundary and shown on the final drawing. In addition, the client and surveyor must complete Table A of the 2016 Minimum Standard Detail Requirements for ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys as adopted by the American Land Title Association and the National Society of Professional Surveyors (a member organization of the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping). Table A will specify which other items are required for each particular job. Typically, zoning information, building height and setback requirements, underground utilities, parking stripes and adjoiner information are included as part of the ALTA. Look under Resources, then Standards at the following link to view information on ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys:http://www.nsps.us.comReviewing this information will provide an idea of what the land surveyor must do to satisfy the Requirements for an ALTA Survey.
