An ALTA/NSPS survey is generally ordered for commercial property. It can however be requested for any type of real estate including residential, agricultural and even condominiums. ALTA/NSPS stands for American Land Title Association and National Society of Professional surveyors. The two organizations jointly create standards of practice for ALTA/NSPS surveys on a periodic basis. Our current standards were implemented in February 23, 2016. These standards explain the purpose of these surveys, how these surveys should be ordered, surveying standards and standards of care, records research, fieldwork, plats and the certification. They also contain options available to the client in Table A and should be included at the time the survey is ordered as well as in the certification. ALTA/NSPS surveys require more research, investigation and diligence to observe, and depict improvements, encumbrances and boundary conflicts (overlaps and gaps or gores) with the adjoining properties. This information provides a buyer or lender a useful tool to make a more informed decision.