Real estate professionals order ALTA Surveys for different purposes and to satisfy different requirements. The survey may be required to secure title insurance at the closing of a deal, or it may be utilized as a design document for engineering purposes. Several factors determine the cost, lead-time, and complexity of an ALTA Survey.
Essentially, the scope of surveying work gets more complicated and takes more time when more improvements exist or are planned for the project. For example, a building with undulated façade and lots of hardscaping and landscaping represents a lot of detailed work for the Surveyor compared to a rectangular-shaped warehouse with striped parking. Informing the Surveyor of your complete scope of work required is step one in ordering the right scope of work for the ALTA Survey.
In this GlobeSt. article, we look at four types of scopes of work and how they differ from one another. I also discuss what survey users can do to prepare prior to ordering an ALTA survey and best practices that could help CRE transactions go smoothly.

March 31, 2026
Digital Download Get immediate access to the 2026 ALTA/NSPS Guidebook. Simply fill out the form to download your copy. Download Guide Request a Physical Copy Need a hard copy for […]

March 11, 2026
In this Globe St. article, Brett Hayes discusses how sellers who complete due diligence before going to market can reduce re-trades and keep deals moving forward.

January 21, 2026
When ordered together, an ALTA Survey and Zoning Report provides clarity, consistency, and peace of mind that no critical detail is overlooked. A unified approach not only saves time but also strengthens every decision you make about your property.





