When it comes to land surveying, choosing the right type of survey is essential. Whether you’re a homeowner, developer, or commercial property buyer, different surveys serve different purposes. That’s why it’s important to clearly communicate your project’s needs to your surveyor before any fieldwork begins.
Two of the most requested types of surveys are Boundary Surveys and ALTA Surveys. Here’s a breakdown of how they differ:
Boundary Survey
A boundary survey is conducted according to your state’s statutes and regulations. These rules determine the types of monuments that can be used, allowable error tolerances between survey markers, and the standards for both fieldwork and the final survey drawing. Boundary surveys are most often used for residential properties and provide essential information about property lines and improvements.
ALTA Survey
An ALTA Survey—short for American Land Title Association survey—is held to both state standards and the national ALTA/NSPS (National Society of Professional Surveyors) standards. These surveys are far more detailed and are primarily used for commercial real estate transactions.
The ALTA standards ensure that title companies and underwriters receive consistent, comprehensive survey data across all states. In addition to basic boundary information, ALTA surveys can include optional items such as easements, access points, zoning information, and flood zone designations – based on what’s required for the transaction.
Think of an ALTA survey as a boundary survey with much more detail—it’s built to support complex property deals, especially on the commercial side. For residential projects, a standard boundary survey is typically sufficient. For commercial purchases, developments, or transactions involving title insurance, an ALTA survey is usually the better choice.
Cardinal Surveying would like the opportunity to earn your business. They service the greater St Louis Metro area, have been rated A+ with the Better Business Bureau since 2003, have surveyed over 35,000 properties and are a family-owned company who prides themselves on producing accurate results with exceptional customer service. They can be contacted via email at inbox@cardinalsurveying.com or phone at 636.922.1001. They look forward to working with you for all your land surveying needs.