The hook
ALTA / NSPS surveys are the commercial real estate standard. Title companies require them for transactions over a certain value. The standard specifies what the survey must show, how it must be measured, and what certifications are required. The exam tests the standard\'s structure.
Memorize these
Concepts that show up on the exam
ALTA / NSPS standard
Joint standard from American Land Title Association + National Society of Professional Surveyors. Most recent: 2021 standard.
Title commitment Schedule B
List of encumbrances from the title commitment. Every Schedule B item must be addressed on the ALTA — plotted, located, or noted as not visible.
Table A
List of optional items the client can elect (and pay for). Item 1: acreage. Item 4: contours. Item 11: utilities. Item 13: zoning. Item 16: as-built measurements. 22 items in the 2021 version.
Relative positional precision
2 cm + 50 ppm of the distance for the LONGEST line on the survey. Computed from the network adjustment; documented in the report.
Certification
Specific wording prescribed by the standard, including the title company, lender, buyer, and other parties relying on the survey. Surveyor signs and seals.
Encroachment
Improvement crossing a property line in or out. Must be plotted and labeled on every ALTA.
Test yourself
How well did it stick?
A quick 5-question check on ALTA / NSPS Land Title Survey Standards. See where you stand and what to review.