Difference Between ALTA/ACSM Lands Title Survey and Boundary Survey

ALTA/ACSM land title surveys are also referred to as 'due diligence surveys', and they are conducted for commercial purposes. They are different from a conventional boundary survey where only easements, property lines, and other data as mandated by a state standard are shown. ALTA/ACSM surveys follow a uniform set of codes for construction purposes as set by authorized institutions and the government.

A boundary survey merely establishes the corners of a land or a residence. On the other hand, an ALTA/ACSM survey is required along with other important documents when going through any transaction involving commercial real estate. It is often included as part of the insurance or title certificate application. ALTA stands for 'American Land Title Association', and ACSM stands for the 'American Congress on Surveying and Mapping'.

The ALTA/ACSM standards require a highly detailed report that will include the easements encumbering or benefiting the property, zoning setbacks, possible encroachments across easements and boundaries, and flood zones that could affect the property. The survey may show whether there is any access to public roads, evidence of use by any other parties, evidence of cemeteries, water boundaries, and the names of the owners of an adjoining property.

Prior to measuring the property, professional surveyors do some in-depth research on it. This is done by examining the existing title commitment and searching for country and municipal records for any existing encumbrances. The research will provide surveyors with knowledge of the land, and will inform them of any possible conflict before doing an ALTA/ACSM land title survey.

An ALTA/ACSM survey may provide more information that is crucial to commercial real estate projects and transactions. It can suggest improvements on the land, like roads, fences, rights of ways, and trails. It can provide further improvements, ownership areas, easements, and encroachments on the property and its boundaries. The survey may provide information on the on the property.