5 Types Of Surveys Commonly Used In Commercial Transactions

09/22/2026 11:23 AM Mark Goodman

A survey is a process by which a specific piece of real estate is investigated in order to provide the land owner or prospective buyer with more information about the property. Surveys are ordered all the time in the world of commercial real estate, but different surveys serve different purposes. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at five different types of surveys that may be ordered as a way of learning more about a potential commercial real estate purchase.

ALTA Survey - An ALTA survey is a comprehensive type of survey available for a potential buyer, and it combines many of the surveys listed below. It tells you a lot about a property, and it involves a deep dive into the history and current standing of the property. It works to discover boundaries, title standing, improvements to the land, the existence of easements, encroachments and other encumbrances like rights of way.

As-Built Survey - An As-Built survey is conducted once construction on a commercial property is complete. It establishes the exact placement of improvements to a property and confirms that the completed work matches the approved site plans. It essentially provides accurate and updated information about upgrades to the property.
Boundary Survey - A boundary survey is typically included in an ALTA survey, but you can also order a simple boundary survey on your own. The boundary survey confirms the precise location of a property, its corners and the lines that separate it from neighboring land. It is commonly used to settle boundary disputes or establish where a fence should be erected.
Environmental Survey - An environmental survey takes a closer look at - you guessed it - the environment as it relates to the property and vice versa. It can identify protected areas, flood zones, wetlands or contamination concerns that could fall on you to address, even if you were not the one to cause the industrial pollution in the first place. This survey ensures the commercial space is in compliance with federal, state and local environmental protections and regulations.
Topographic Survey - A topographic survey documents the natural and man-made features of the property. Some aspects included in a topographic survey include structures on a property, natural terrain and elevation changes. This information is key to site developers and engineers who use it to plan drainage and grading for structures on the property.

All of these surveys serve a vital purpose and can provide you with key information about a commercial property, and we’d be happy to go into greater detail about any or all of the above options. For more information, or to work with an industry professional during your next commercial transaction, connect with the team at Commercial Partners today at (612) 337-2470.