Diligence · Glossary

ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey

Updated 2026-07-18

ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey is a detailed survey prepared to national minimum standards for land-title transactions. It can depict boundaries, improvements, access, and selected title exceptions, but its exact scope depends on the current standards and negotiated Table A items.

What it means

The survey coordinates the record description, field evidence, title commitment, and specified optional items for lender and title review.

Why it matters for land decisions

It can reveal encroachments, gaps, overlaps, unrecorded occupation, and easement conflicts not visible in parcel GIS.

  • Provide the current title commitment.
  • Select Table A items based on the project.

People also ask

Is an ALTA survey required for every land purchase?

No. It is often requested for commercial financing or complex title review, while other survey products may fit simpler transactions.

Does an ALTA survey determine legal ownership?

No. It provides survey evidence; title status is addressed through title examination and legal documents.

Official sources

Related terms

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