Q: What does an "ALTA Survey" mean? A: An ALTA survey is a survey that is generally required on commercial parcels. These surveys are required by lenders and consist of a survey referencing a specific set of specifications that are chosen from the "Minimum Standard Detail Requirements for ALTA/ACSM Land Title Surveys as adopted by American Land Title Association and National Society of Professional Surveyors". Most residential parcels are not required to have this type of survey, though there are some cases that a Title Company will require this type of survey to be done.