Some people think that all boundary surveys are the same. They all show where the borders of your property are, right? Not always. Sometimes you need a survey that will do more than just show your boundaries, like an ALTA survey.
You might have heard of an ALTA/NSPS survey, or even have been ordered to get one for an insurance policy or property sale. If you’re wondering what kind of service you need for your property, read through the differences between boundary surveys and ALTA surveys.
If you still have questions, you can always get in touch with one of our land surveyors in New York. We offer free estimates so you can get an idea of your options without having to pay first.
Boundary Survey vs. ALTA Survey
The truth is that boundary surveys and ALTA surveys are similar–in fact, some people consider ALTA surveys to be a type of boundary survey. The difference between the two is that a boundary survey only shows the boundary lines between two plots of land. An ALTA survey, on the other hand, shows improvements, risks, and other details.
ALTA surveys are based on a set of standards laid out by the American Land Title Association (ALTA) and the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS). ALTA/NSPS standards are more specific than regular boundary survey standards, and they cover information that buyers, sellers, and insurers often want to know.
ALTA/NSPS surveys are usually more expensive than border surveys. That’s because the surveyor will need to go through records and use more advanced techniques to meet industry standards and show all the necessary information.
Boundary surveys and ALTA surveys are the two most-requested surveys that we see. Whether you just need a simple analysis of the borders of your land or you need a comprehensive evaluation of your property, we can help. You can get a free quote from one of our professionals today.
When to Use an ALTA Survey
Property owners usually use an ALTA survey when they’re conducting a commercial transaction. That can include selling their property, buying an insurance policy, or any other number of things that require an in-depth understanding of the land.
Most of the time, if you’re the property owner, you’ll know if you have to get an ALTA survey as opposed to any other type of land title survey. The interested party, whether it’s a buyer or an insurer, will specify that you need to get one. Those parties will need an evaluation of your land that meets the criteria set by the ALTA.
Our professionals have years of experience and know everything that they need to do to get a comprehensive ALTA survey done. We’ve been serving property owners in New York since 2013, so we know a thing or two about industry standards.
ALTA/NSPS Requirements
Because ALTA surveys are more in-depth and comprehensive than other border surveys, professionals who perform them have certain requirements that they have to meet. Things that ALTA surveyors have to take into account include:
- Flood zones
- Bodies of water on boundaries
- Encumbrances like easements or rights of way
- Any encroachments onto your boundaries by other properties
- Preliminary research using paper and digital records
Our professionals have a New York land surveyor certificate and know how to meet every requirement for an ALTA survey. To find out how we can help, get in touch with one of our land surveyors today.
Land Survey FAQs
What Does a Boundary Survey Show?
How Long Is an ALTA Survey Good For?
What Does a Boundary Survey Show?
Boundary surveys only show the extent of your property and any encroachment that neighboring properties might have. This is still useful to property owners but often is not enough for insurance companies or buyers who want to know more details about the land.
What Is an ALTA Survey?
An ALTA/NSPS survey is a land title survey that conforms to rules set by the American Land Title Association. It covers everything a boundary survey does, plus more information like risks, easements, access points, and more.
How Long Is an ALTA Survey Good For?
There is no expiration date on an ALTA survey. Standards do change over time and so does your property, so if it has been a while since your last survey, you might be asked to get a new one, but it depends on your insurer’s preferences. Most of the time, you just need to get a new ALTA survey when you decide to sell or get a new insurance policy.
Who Orders an ALTA Survey?
Usually, the owner of a plot of land has to order an ALTA survey. Even if an insurer or a buyer requests the survey for a policy or report, the owner is the one who has to consent to the survey. If someone is ordering a survey for another party, that party has to provide written consent.
Get a Quote on a Boundary Survey or an ALTA Survey Today.
Whether you’re getting a run-of-the-mill boundary survey or a detailed ATLA survey, you need a surveying company that you can rely on. Boundary surveyors Scalice Land Surveying can send a reliable technician who will show up on time, get the job done, and make sure your needs are met.
Call us or contact us online to get a FREE quote on a survey today. We’re on call for property owners in New York State.
