Boundary Surveys vs. ALTA Surveys: What Property Owners Need to Know in Ohio and Maryland

If you’re buying, selling, or developing property, you may be told you need a survey — but not all surveys are the same. Two of the most common types property owners hear about are Boundary Surveys and ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys. Understanding the difference can save you time, money, and major headaches.

Below, we break down what each survey is, when it’s required, and how to know which one you need.

What Is a Boundary Survey?

A Boundary Survey establishes the legal property lines of a parcel of land. It identifies where your property begins and ends based on recorded deeds, plats, and physical evidence found on the ground.

Boundary surveys typically include:

• Property boundary lines

• Corner markers or monuments

• Dimensions and bearings

• Encroachments (fences, driveways, structures crossing property lines)

• Easements that affect the property

When Do You Need a Boundary Survey?

You may need a boundary survey if you are:

• Buying or selling residential or commercial property

• Installing a fence, driveway, or addition

• Resolving a boundary dispute with a neighbor

• Subdividing land

• Applying for zoning or permitting approval

Boundary surveys are commonly used by homeowners and small commercial property owners and are often required by municipalities and lenders.

What Is an ALTA Survey?

An ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey is a more detailed and standardized survey designed primarily for commercial real estate transactions. ALTA surveys follow strict national standards set by the American Land Title Association (ALTA) and the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS).

ALTA surveys typically include everything in a boundary survey, plus:

• Detailed easements and rights-of-way

• Access points and roadways

• Utilities and service lines (visible and documented)

• Flood zone classification (when requested)

• Zoning and setback information (Table A items)

• Improvements, parking areas, and building locations

ALTA surveys are often required by title companies and lenders before issuing title insurance for commercial properties.

Boundary Survey vs. ALTA Survey: Key Differences

Feature	Boundary Survey	ALTA Survey
Best for	Residential & small properties	Commercial transactions
Level of detail	Standard	Highly detailed
National standards	No	Yes (ALTA/NSPS)
Title insurance use	Rare	Commonly required
Cost & timeline	Lower & faster	Higher & more involved

Which Survey Do You Need in Ohio or Maryland?

The type of survey you need depends on how the property will be used and who is requesting it.

• Homeowners in Ohio or Maryland typically need a boundary survey.

• Commercial buyers, developers, or investors are more likely to need an ALTA survey, especially when a lender or title company is involved.

If you’re unsure, a licensed land surveyor can review your situation and recommend the correct survey — helping you avoid ordering more (or less) than required.

How Cub Survey Can Help

Cub Survey provides professional land surveying services throughout Ohio and Maryland, including:

• Boundary surveys

• ALTA/NSPS land title surveys

• Property and lot surveys

• Support for residential and commercial projects

Our team works closely with property owners, real estate professionals, and attorneys to ensure surveys are accurate, compliant, and delivered efficiently. Get your Maryland or Ohio land survey today.