When deciding which optional survey items are best for your commercial property, it’s important to carefully consider the Minimum Standard Detail Requirements. Continue reading If you’re looking for detailed information on property improvements.
Alta Survey Requirements
When requested, the Optional Table A Item 8 of the Minimum Standard Detail Requirements for ALTA/NSPS Surveys can add more detail and important data to the survey. Some of the more detailed data is not included in the standard surveyor requirements.
The definition reads: “Substantial features observed in the process of conducting the fieldwork (in addition to the improvements and features required pursuant to Section 5 above) (e.g., parking lots, billboards, signs, swimming pools, landscaped areas, substantial areas of refuse)”.
The definition above refers to the Minimum Standard Detail Requirements, which state that it is the surveyor’s responsibility to include representation on the survey of the improvements on the property such as:
- Buildings
- Driveways
- Access
- Encroachments
- Surface indication of underground easements or servitudes
- Evidence of cemeteries
What is Included in Table A Item 8?
If requested, Table A Item 8 requires the surveyor to use their best judgment to report features on the property that may be of interest or value to those reviewing it. The phrase “substantial features” is not defined beyond the examples that are given in the description of Table A Item 8.
To best serve our clients, it is good practice for the surveyor to be diligent in reporting the additional improvements from the client’s perspective. The client may learn of features that could add value to the property (i.e., recreational areas) or items that may need to be considered for determining zoning compliance (signage placement, etc.).
There are also environmental issues to consider. If additional “features” are substantial areas of refuse, the client may want to learn more and request an environmental report for more information before going forward with their transaction. The “substantial areas of refuse” verbiage was added to the 2016 definition of Table A Item as the prior 2011 Table A Item 18 (Environmental Matters) was removed from the options.
The definition of what is to be considered “substantial” should be discussed with the surveyor. Item 8 can add additional cost to the survey and may extend the timing to complete. The transaction parties are relying on the survey to be accurate and thorough in its depiction of what is transpiring on the property.
Are you interested in learning more about Optional Table A Item 8 of the Minimum Standard Detail Requirements? Contact us for more information or visit our website to request a quote today.