An ALTA Survey is one of the most important steps in a commercial real estate transaction—especially in a state like Arizona, where land records, terrain, and development standards can vary widely. From Phoenix to Tucson, lenders, title companies, and buyers rely on ALTA Surveys to confirm boundaries, access points, easements, and improvements before closing a deal.
Ordering it at the right time—and understanding what happens during the survey process—can help avoid costly delays and legal complications.
Who Needs an ALTA Survey in Arizona?
Not every property transaction requires one—but most insured commercial deals do. If you fall into one of these groups, you’ll likely need an ALTA survey:
- Commercial buyers
- Title companies issuing extended coverage
- Banks and private lenders financing the purchase
- Real estate attorneys and brokers managing the transaction
- Developers planning new construction
These parties need accurate data on boundaries, access, easements, and encroachments—especially when millions of dollars are involved.
When to Order the ALTA Survey
Here’s the best time to order one in Arizona:
- Right after the purchase agreement is signed
Don’t wait until closing is near. Field work and drafting take time. - Before the end of your due diligence period
So you have time to review, resolve issues, or renegotiate. - As soon as title commitments and Table A items are finalized
The surveyor will use these to guide the scope of work.
In Arizona, the standard lead time for an ALTA survey ranges from 1 to 3 weeks, depending on property size and location. Early ordering ensures you’re not rushing to meet closing deadlines.
What Happens if You Wait Too Long?
Delaying your ALTA order can lead to:
- Closing delays
- Lender frustration or loan approval setbacks
- Late discovery of encroachments or access problems
- Missed negotiation windows for easement disputes or site issues
Arizona-Specific Survey Considerations
Land in Arizona comes with unique survey challenges:
- Older plats or irregular lot shapes in urban infill zones
- Unplatted rural parcels with little documentation
- Tribal lands, utility corridors, or abandoned easements
- Terrain obstacles that slow down field work, especially in remote or mountainous areas
Ordering early gives your surveyor more time to manage these challenges properly.
How to Prepare Before You Order
To avoid back-and-forth, gather these first:
- Title commitment and legal description
- ALTA Table A checklist
- Zoning report (if applicable)
- Site access instructions and point of contact
Once ready, you can request a quote and timeline from a licensed Arizona land surveyor.
What to Ask Your Surveyor
Before hiring, confirm:
- Are they licensed in Arizona?
- Have they done ALTA surveys for similar properties?
- Can they meet your closing schedule?
- Will they coordinate directly with the title company or attorney?
Clear communication helps avoid last-minute surprises.
Final Thought: Plan Early to Close Smoothly
If you’re handling a commercial deal in Arizona, don’t leave the ALTA survey to the last minute. Early planning protects your timeline, avoids hidden issues, and gives your team the confidence to move forward.
If you’re planning a commercial property transaction in Arizona, it’s smart to consult with a licensed land surveyor early in the process to avoid delays and unexpected issues.
FAQs
1. Is an ALTA survey required by law in Arizona?
No, but lenders and title insurers usually require it for commercial deals.
2. How long does it take to complete?
Usually 1–3 weeks depending on the site and scope of work.
3. Can I reuse an old ALTA survey?
Only if updated and certified for the current transaction.
4. Do residential properties need ALTA surveys?
Rarely. They’re typically used for commercial or mixed-use properties.
5. What’s the average cost in Arizona?
Anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000 depending on size, complexity, and Table A requirements.
