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NSPS CST Level IV study materials
NSPS CST Level IV study resources

NSPS CST Level IV practice questions

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Question 1Field Track

Under the NSPS/ALTA minimum standards, what is the required positional tolerance for a boundary monument placed at a property corner in a rural area, expressed in terms of the ratio of misplacement to the distance between the corner and the nearest other corner?

  1. 1:10,000
  2. 1:5,000 Correct answer.
  3. 1:3,000
  4. 1:7,500

Explanation

The NSPS/ALTA minimum standard accuracy for rural property corners is a positional tolerance of 1:5,000, meaning the monument may be misplaced by no more than one unit for every 5,000 units of distance to the nearest adjacent corner. Urban corners carry a tighter 1:10,000 requirement, so the rural figure is the looser one.

Question 2Field Track

A surveyor is preparing an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey of a commercial parcel in a downtown core. Which positional tolerance applies to the boundary corners of that parcel?

  1. 2 cm plus 50 ppm of the distance between corners, at 95% confidence Correct answer.
  2. 1:7,500
  3. 1:20,000
  4. 1:5,000

Explanation

The ALTA/NSPS maximum allowable relative positional precision between boundary corners is 2 cm plus 50 parts per million of their separation at 95% confidence. This requirement includes a fixed term and does not use separate urban and rural ratio tiers.

Question 3Field Track

On an ALTA/NSPS survey, Table A item 1 (monuments) is checked. What does this obligate the surveyor to do?

  1. Depict only monuments set by the surveyor, excluding found ones
  2. Show and describe all monuments found and set, including their type, size, and cap information Correct answer.
  3. Certify that every boundary corner is monumented with a new iron pin
  4. Record the survey with the county before delivery

Explanation

Table A item 1 requires the surveyor to show and label monuments found and set, with enough description (type, size, cap) to identify them in the field. It does not require setting new monuments at every corner or recording the plat.

Question 4Field Track

A client requests Table A item 11 (utility easements) on an ALTA/NSPS survey. Which statement best describes the surveyor's obligation?

  1. The surveyor must guarantee that no unrecorded utilities cross the parcel
  2. The surveyor must perform a full subsurface utility locate of all buried lines
  3. The surveyor must certify the exact invert elevations of all storm sewers
  4. The surveyor must show utility easements of record affecting the property, based on documents provided or recorded Correct answer.

Explanation

Table A item 11 addresses utility easements of record, which the surveyor depicts from recorded documents or information furnished. It does not convert the boundary survey into a subsurface utility investigation.

Question 5Field Track

Which party is responsible for specifying which optional Table A items are to be included in an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey?

  1. The county recorder
  2. The client, who negotiates the items with the lender and title company Correct answer.
  3. The title company underwriter
  4. The surveyor, using professional judgment alone

Explanation

Table A items are optional and are selected by the client in consultation with the lender and title insurer; the surveyor then performs the checked items. The surveyor may advise but does not unilaterally choose the scope.

Question 6Field Track

An ALTA/NSPS survey must be performed in conformance with which two documents?

  1. The state minimum standards and the local zoning ordinance
  2. The 2021 ALTA/NSPS Minimum Standard Detail Requirements and the NSPS accuracy standards they reference Correct answer.
  3. The client's purchase contract and the lender's closing instructions
  4. The Manual of Surveying Instructions and the county subdivision regulations

Explanation

The survey is governed by the current ALTA/NSPS Minimum Standard Detail Requirements, which incorporate specific accuracy standards. State standards and zoning ordinances may also apply but are not the governing pair for ALTA compliance.

Question 7Field Track

During fieldwork a surveyor finds an original stone monument at a property corner that conflicts with the recorded deed distance by 0.8 ft. What is the correct professional response?

  1. Ignore the stone and set a new pin at the deed distance
  2. Average the stone position and the deed position
  3. Remove the stone and replace it with a more accurate marker
  4. Accept the stone as the best evidence of the original corner and explain the discrepancy in the survey Correct answer.

Explanation

Original monuments generally control over distances recited in deeds, so the found stone is strong evidence of the true corner. The surveyor should hold it and document the discrepancy rather than force the deed measurement.

Question 8Field Track

What is the purpose of the surveyor's certification block on an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey?

  1. To record the metes and bounds description with the county
  2. To guarantee the property is free of encroachments
  3. To state the standards to which the survey was performed and the surveyor's professional certification of compliance Correct answer.
  4. To transfer title to the lender

Explanation

The certification block identifies the applicable minimum standards and Table A items and contains the surveyor's statement of professional responsibility. It does not convey title or provide an absolute guarantee against encroachments.

Question 9Field Track

A parcel boundary follows a meandering creek. In preparing the ALTA/NSPS survey, how should the surveyor depict the boundary along the water?

  1. As a straight line between the two terminus monuments
  2. Along the centerline of the nearest public road
  3. At the fence line regardless of the deed
  4. Along the creek's ordinary high-water mark or thread of the stream as the deed or state law dictates Correct answer.

Explanation

Where a boundary is a natural water feature, the deed language and applicable state law determine whether the line follows the ordinary high-water mark or the thread of the stream. The surveyor must depict that legally defined line, not an arbitrary straight chord.

Question 10Field Track

Which of the following best describes a riparian boundary along a non-navigable stream under the common majority rule?

  1. The boundary stops at the top of the bank
  2. The boundary extends to the thread (center) of the stream Correct answer.
  3. The boundary is fixed at the recorded deed line regardless of the stream
  4. The boundary extends to the far bank

Explanation

For non-navigable streams, the majority rule extends ownership to the thread or center of the stream, subject to the state's law. Navigable waters generally follow a different rule tied to the ordinary high-water mark.

Question 11Field Track

A surveyor discovers that a neighboring building overhangs the subject parcel by 0.4 ft. Under the ALTA/NSPS standards, how should this be handled?

  1. Certify that no encroachment exists
  2. Omit it because it is less than one foot
  3. Show and describe the encroachment on the survey Correct answer.
  4. Show it only if the client requests Table A item 1

Explanation

Encroachments that are discovered must be shown and described on the survey regardless of magnitude, because lenders and title insurers rely on that disclosure. There is no de minimis threshold that permits omission.

Question 12Field Track

In an ALTA/NSPS survey, what does Table A item 2 (adjoiner information) typically require?

  1. The soil types underlying adjoining parcels
  2. The names of adjoining owners and the recording references for adjoining parcels Correct answer.
  3. The assessed value of adjoining parcels
  4. The zoning classification of adjoining parcels

Explanation

Table A item 2 calls for adjoiner names and deed references so that the survey shows the record context of surrounding parcels. It does not involve valuation, zoning, or soils.

Question 13Field Track

A surveyor must establish the positional tolerance for a boundary corner located in a suburban subdivision that lies within an incorporated municipality. Which tolerance governs?

  1. 1:5,000
  2. 1:15,000
  3. 1:10,000 Correct answer.
  4. 1:2,500

Explanation

Because the corner lies within an incorporated municipality, the urban tolerance of 1:10,000 applies. The rural 1:5,000 figure is reserved for corners outside such areas.

Question 14Field Track

When a surveyor prepares an ALTA/NSPS survey, what is the significance of the "Date of Survey" shown on the drawing?

  1. It is the date the property was last sold
  2. It is the date fieldwork and related research were substantially completed, establishing currency of the survey Correct answer.
  3. It is the date the deed was recorded
  4. It is the date the lender approved the loan

Explanation

The date of survey reflects when the fieldwork and research were substantially completed, which tells the reader how current the information is. It is distinct from recording, loan approval, or sale dates.

Question 15Field Track

A surveyor finds a fence that has been treated as the boundary for 25 years but does not match the deed line. In an ALTA/NSPS survey, what is the appropriate treatment?

  1. Certify the fence as the true boundary without qualification
  2. Move the fence to the deed line before surveying
  3. Ignore the fence and survey only the deed line
  4. Depict the deed line and note the fence and any potential boundary-by-possession or adverse possession issue Correct answer.

Explanation

The surveyor should show the record boundary and disclose the fence and any potential prescriptive or adverse possession claim as a note. The surveyor reports facts and legal implications for others to resolve, rather than unilaterally relocating the boundary.

Question 16Field Track

Which statement correctly describes the relationship between the ALTA/NSPS Minimum Standard Detail Requirements and state licensing law?

  1. The ALTA/NSPS standards supersede state licensing law
  2. The ALTA/NSPS standards apply only to federally owned land
  3. State licensing law governs the practice of surveying, and the ALTA/NSPS standards supplement it for this survey type Correct answer.
  4. State law is irrelevant when an ALTA survey is requested

Explanation

State law defines the licensed practice of surveying and cannot be overridden by a private standard. The ALTA/NSPS requirements add content and accuracy expectations for this specific survey product.

Question 17Field Track

What does Table A item 6 (zoning) require when checked on an ALTA/NSPS survey?

  1. Only the zoning map number
  2. A guarantee that the current use conforms to zoning
  3. The zoning classification, setback requirements, and other bulk regulations applicable to the parcel Correct answer.
  4. A full zoning compliance analysis by an attorney

Explanation

Table A item 6 asks the surveyor to depict the zoning classification and applicable bulk regulations such as setbacks and height limits. It does not require a legal opinion on conformity or an attorney's compliance analysis.

Question 18Field Track

A surveyor is asked to certify an ALTA/NSPS survey for a lender. Which of the following is a proper element of the surveyor's certification?

  1. A statement that the survey was performed in accordance with the specified minimum standards and Table A items Correct answer.
  2. A statement that no liens exist on the property
  3. A statement guaranteeing marketable title
  4. A statement that the property value meets the loan amount

Explanation

The certification states the standards and Table A items to which the survey was performed and the surveyor's compliance. Title, liens, and value are outside the surveyor's certification and belong to title and appraisal professionals.

Question 19Field Track

A surveyor must locate a boundary line called for as running along the top of a bluff overlooking a navigable river. Which principle guides the location of that line?

  1. The line follows the top of the bluff as the called-for natural monument, subject to state law Correct answer.
  2. The line follows the thread of the river regardless of the bluff call
  3. The line follows the ordinary high-water mark in all cases
  4. The line is set at the deed distance from the nearest corner

Explanation

When a deed calls for a natural monument such as the top of a bluff, that call generally controls over distances and generic water-boundary rules. State law may refine the result, but the called-for monument is the starting point.

Question 20Field Track

What is the role of the title commitment in preparing an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey?

  1. It certifies the surveyor's license status
  2. It establishes the positional tolerance
  3. It provides the record ownership and encumbrance information the surveyor uses to depict easements and exceptions Correct answer.
  4. It replaces the need for fieldwork

Explanation

The title commitment supplies the record information-ownership, easements, and exceptions-that the surveyor must reconcile with field evidence. It complements, but never replaces, fieldwork.

Question 21Field Track

In preparing an ALTA/NSPS survey, a surveyor finds that a recorded easement crosses the parcel but no physical evidence of it exists. How should the easement be shown?

  1. Depict it only if the client confirms its use
  2. Depict the easement of record and note that no physical evidence was observed Correct answer.
  3. Relocate it to match the nearest utility line
  4. Omit it because no physical evidence exists

Explanation

Easements of record must be depicted from the record documents, and the surveyor should note the absence of physical evidence. Record and field evidence are separate considerations, and neither cancels the other.

Question 22Field Track

Which of these is a required element of the written report or drawing for an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey?

  1. The surveyor's seal and signature Correct answer.
  2. A copy of the property tax bill
  3. A photograph of every monument found
  4. The lender's underwriting file

Explanation

The survey must bear the surveyor's seal and signature where required by state law, evidencing professional responsibility. Photographs, underwriting files, and tax bills are not required elements.

Question 23Field Track

A surveyor must determine whether a parcel is in a "rural" or "urban" classification for positional tolerance purposes. Which factor is most relevant under the minimum standards?

  1. The parcel's assessed value
  2. The date of the last recorded deed
  3. Whether the parcel lies within a municipality or an area of dense development Correct answer.
  4. The number of monuments found on the parcel

Explanation

The rural versus urban distinction turns on whether the property is within an incorporated municipality or an area of dense development, which drives the 1:5,000 versus 1:10,000 tolerance. Value, monument counts, and deed dates are not the criteria.

Question 24Field Track

What is the primary purpose of an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey relative to a standard boundary survey?

  1. To replace the title insurance policy
  2. To provide a uniform, lender- and title-oriented survey product with defined content and accuracy Correct answer.
  3. To establish zoning compliance for the owner
  4. To satisfy federal rectangular survey requirements

Explanation

The ALTA/NSPS survey standardizes content and accuracy so lenders and title insurers can rely on a consistent product. It supports, but does not replace, title insurance and does not address zoning compliance or federal survey rules.

Question 25Field Track

A surveyor discovers that a neighbor's driveway crosses the subject parcel and has been used openly for many years. Under the ALTA/NSPS standards, what is the appropriate depiction?

  1. Show the driveway without any notation
  2. Certify that no easement exists because none is recorded
  3. Omit the driveway because it is not on the deed
  4. Show the driveway and note the apparent use and any potential prescriptive easement Correct answer.

Explanation

The surveyor should depict the physical driveway and note the apparent use and potential prescriptive easement so the title company and lender can evaluate it. Silence or omission would mislead the reader about a material condition.

Question 26Field Track

Under the ALTA/NSPS Minimum Standard Detail Requirements, what does the surveyor's use of the phrase "as set forth hereon" in the certification signify about matters shown on the plat?

  1. The surveyor is confirming that the title commitment was complete and free of errors at the date of survey.
  2. The surveyor is certifying only the accuracy of the boundary geometry and the placement of monuments.
  3. The surveyor is certifying to the parties named in the certification that the matters depicted on the plat are portrayed accurately. Correct answer.
  4. The surveyor is warranting that no undisclosed interests in the land exist beyond those shown.

Explanation

The certification language certifies to the named parties that the survey as depicted portrays the matters shown accurately, within the stated positional tolerances. It is a professional certification of the depicted matters, not a guarantee about title or the completeness of the commitment.

Question 27Field Track

On an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey, what must the surveyor show regarding observed evidence of easements that are not disclosed in the title commitment?

  1. A note that the matter was referred to the title company, with no depiction on the plat.
  2. Nothing, because only record easements from the commitment are within the survey's scope.
  3. Only a reference to the deed book and page of the adjoining parcel that may benefit from it.
  4. The location of the observed physical evidence, together with a note identifying it as not disclosed in the commitment. Correct answer.

Explanation

The standards require the surveyor to locate observable evidence of easements and to note those that are not disclosed in the title commitment, so the client and title insurer can evaluate them. Simply omitting them defeats the purpose of a title-related survey.

Question 28Field Track

A surveyor is preparing an ALTA/NSPS survey and finds that the subject parcel's record description closes with a small misclosure. What is the appropriate professional treatment of this record misclosure?

  1. Reject the record description as void and survey only to occupation lines.
  2. Adjust the boundary lines so the parcel closes mathematically, then show the adjusted bearings and distances as the record lines.
  3. Show the record bearings and distances as written and disclose the misclosure, holding the record monuments or calls that control. Correct answer.
  4. Scale the missing distance proportionally among all courses and note the correction on the plat.

Explanation

The surveyor reports the record description as written and discloses any misclosure, while honoring the controlling monuments or calls that govern the true boundary. Silently adjusting record lines misrepresents the deed and can move the boundary wrongly.

Question 29Field Track

In an ALTA/NSPS survey, what does Table A item 1 (monuments) address when it is checked?

  1. The requirement to show monuments set or found at each corner and to state the character of those monuments. Correct answer.
  2. The requirement to list the license numbers of the field crew who set the monuments.
  3. The requirement to certify that every monument is a government-set original.
  4. The requirement to compute the positional tolerance for each monument based on its age.

Explanation

Table A item 1 concerns monuments: it requires showing monuments found or set at the corners and describing their character, such as type and size. It does not address tolerance computation, government origin, or crew licensing.

Question 30Field Track

Which statement correctly describes how the ALTA/NSPS Minimum Standard Detail Requirements treat the positional tolerance table?

  1. The tolerances are relative to the controls used and vary by the classification of the property, such as urban, suburban, or rural. Correct answer.
  2. The tolerances are fixed at 0.01 ft for all property types regardless of location.
  3. The tolerances apply only when Table A item 1 is checked by the client.
  4. The tolerances apply only to urban properties and are advisory for rural parcels.

Explanation

The standards establish relative positional tolerances that depend on the property classification (urban, suburban, rural) and on the controls relied upon. They are not a single universal value and are not limited to urban parcels.

Question 31Field Track

A client asks the surveyor to omit from the ALTA/NSPS plat a utility easement that the client considers unimportant. How should the surveyor respond?

  1. Show the easement, because the standards require depiction of easements disclosed in the commitment or observed in the field. Correct answer.
  2. Omit it, because the client controls the scope of the survey through Table A selections.
  3. Show only the easement's existence in a general note without locating it on the plat.
  4. Omit it but keep a private file note documenting the easement's location.

Explanation

Easements disclosed in the title commitment and those observed in the field must be depicted as the standards require; a client cannot waive that by request. Omitting a known easement would mislead the title insurer and lender relying on the certification.

Question 32Field Track

On an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey, how should the surveyor handle a discrepancy between the record area of the parcel and the area computed from the surveyed boundary?

  1. Show only the computed area and delete the record area to avoid confusion.
  2. Show the area computed from the survey and, where the record area differs, disclose the record area as well. Correct answer.
  3. Show only the record area, since the deed controls the area.
  4. Average the record and computed areas and show the mean.

Explanation

The standards call for the surveyor to report the area as computed from the survey and to disclose the record area when it differs, so the reader can see both. Presenting only one figure, or averaging them, conceals the discrepancy.

Question 33Field Track

A surveyor preparing an ALTA/NSPS survey identifies a water boundary along a non-navigable stream. What is the surveyor's obligation regarding that boundary on the plat?

  1. Omit the water boundary because riparian lines are matters of law, not survey.
  2. Show the thread of the stream as the boundary in every state without exception.
  3. Show the ordinary high water mark as the boundary regardless of navigability.
  4. Depict the boundary as located based on the applicable state rule and disclose the basis used. Correct answer.

Explanation

The surveyor locates and depicts the water boundary according to the rule that applies in that jurisdiction and discloses the basis for the location. Riparian location rules vary by state and by whether the stream is navigable.

Question 34Field Track

What is the purpose of the surveyor's note on an ALTA/NSPS plat describing the source of the boundary information, such as the record documents and field evidence relied upon?

  1. To identify the basis for the boundary location so the reader can evaluate how the lines were determined. Correct answer.
  2. To replace the certification block when the client waives certification.
  3. To certify that the record documents are legally valid and enforceable.
  4. To satisfy a requirement that the surveyor list all clients who have ordered prior surveys.

Explanation

The standards require the surveyor to disclose the sources relied upon so the reader can understand how the boundary was established. It is a transparency requirement, not a legal opinion on validity and not a substitute for certification.

Question 35Field Track

A surveyor is asked to prepare an ALTA/NSPS survey of a parcel that abuts a railroad right-of-way. What must the surveyor consider regarding the railroad boundary?

  1. Show the railroad right-of-way as a simple centerline with no width.
  2. Omit the railroad because it is a separate legal entity.
  3. Locate the boundary of the railroad right-of-way as it exists of record and in the field, and disclose the basis. Correct answer.
  4. Show the railroad only if Table A item 2 is checked by the client.

Explanation

Adjoining rights-of-way, including railroad corridors, must be located and depicted as they exist of record and on the ground so the reader understands the relationship to the subject parcel. They are not reduced to a centerline or omitted.

Question 36Field Track

In the context of an ALTA/NSPS survey, what does the term "observed evidence" most nearly mean?

  1. The surveyor's opinion about the probable location of a boundary.
  2. Information contained in the title commitment.
  3. Physical indications of use, occupation, or improvements that the surveyor can see and locate in the field. Correct answer.
  4. Statements made by the property owner during an interview.

Explanation

Observed evidence refers to physical conditions the surveyor can see and locate, such as fences, walls, drives, and improvements. It is distinct from record information and from the owner's statements or the surveyor's opinion.

Question 37Field Track

A surveyor discovers that a building on the subject parcel encroaches onto an adjoining parcel by a small amount. How should this be treated on an ALTA/NSPS survey?

  1. Show the encroachment only if the adjoining owner consents in writing.
  2. Show the building and note the encroachment so the reader is aware of the condition. Correct answer.
  3. Show the building but omit the encroachment to avoid alarming the lender.
  4. Ignore it because encroachments are title matters outside the survey.

Explanation

Encroachments and improvements near boundary lines must be located and disclosed so the client and title insurer can evaluate them. Suppressing a known encroachment would undermine the reliability of the survey.

Question 38Field Track

What is the significance of the "Date of Survey" on an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey?

  1. It identifies the date to which the field work and depicted conditions relate, which may differ from the date of the plat or certification. Correct answer.
  2. It is the date the title commitment was issued and has no relation to field work.
  3. It is the date the deed was recorded.
  4. It is the date the surveyor's license expires.

Explanation

The date of survey identifies when the field work and observed conditions were established, which may differ from the dates of the drawing or certification. Readers use it to judge currency of the depicted conditions.

Question 39Field Track

An ALTA/NSPS survey is being prepared for a lender. The surveyor finds that the property is improved with a building that appears to cross a recorded building setback line. What should the surveyor do?

  1. Omit the setback line because zoning is not part of the survey.
  2. Show the setback line but not the building.
  3. Refuse to complete the survey until the violation is corrected.
  4. Show the building and note the apparent setback violation so the lender can evaluate it. Correct answer.

Explanation

When zoning information is included, the surveyor depicts the building and discloses apparent violations of setback lines so the lender can assess the risk. The surveyor reports conditions; it is not the surveyor's role to halt the transaction.

Question 40Field Track

Which of the following best describes the role of the title commitment in an ALTA/NSPS survey?

  1. It replaces the need for field work on the parcel.
  2. It provides the record interests, such as easements and encumbrances, that the surveyor must evaluate and depict where applicable. Correct answer.
  3. It establishes the boundary location by legal presumption.
  4. It certifies the accuracy of the surveyor's measurements.

Explanation

The title commitment supplies the record interests the surveyor must consider and, where applicable, depict on the survey. It is a record source, not a substitute for field work or a certification of measurements.

Question 41Field Track

A surveyor is preparing an ALTA/NSPS survey and the client checks Table A item 6 (zoning). What information does this item typically require the surveyor to show?

  1. The names of adjacent property owners.
  2. The property's assessed value for tax purposes.
  3. The flood zone designation from FEMA maps.
  4. The zoning classification and the applicable setback, height, and other bulk requirements, together with the improvements as they relate to them. Correct answer.

Explanation

Table A item 6 addresses zoning information: the classification and the bulk regulations, such as setbacks and height limits, shown in relation to the improvements. Assessed value, adjoiner names, and flood zones are different items.

Question 42Field Track

What is the primary distinction between an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey and a standard boundary survey?

  1. The standard boundary survey always includes zoning and flood zone information.
  2. The ALTA/NSPS survey is only valid in states that have adopted it by statute.
  3. The ALTA/NSPS survey does not require field work.
  4. The ALTA/NSPS survey is prepared according to the national standards and is intended for title and lending purposes, addressing title matters and Table A items. Correct answer.

Explanation

The ALTA/NSPS survey follows the national minimum standards, is tied to title and lending needs, and addresses the Table A items selected by the client. A standard boundary survey may not include those title-related elements.

Question 43Field Track

A surveyor finds a fence that has been treated as the boundary for many years but does not match the deed line. How should this be addressed on an ALTA/NSPS survey?

  1. Show only the deed line and ignore the fence.
  2. Show only the fence as the boundary without noting the deed line.
  3. Show the deed line and the fence, and note the discrepancy and any apparent claim of boundary by possession. Correct answer.
  4. Average the deed line and the fence line and show the mean as the boundary.

Explanation

The surveyor depicts both the record line and the observed occupation line and notes the discrepancy, leaving the legal determination of adverse possession or boundary by agreement to the parties and their counsel. The surveyor does not resolve title by choosing one line.

Question 44Field Track

What does the ALTA/NSPS Minimum Standard Detail Requirements' Table A consist of?

  1. A schedule of fees the surveyor may charge for each item.
  2. A list of optional items that the client may request to expand the scope of the survey beyond the minimum requirements. Correct answer.
  3. A list of prohibited practices the surveyor must avoid.
  4. A list of state statutes that govern survey practice.

Explanation

Table A is a menu of optional items the client can select to add scope, such as zoning, flood zone, or adjoiner information. It is not a fee schedule, a statute list, or a list of prohibitions.

Question 45Field Track

A surveyor is preparing an ALTA/NSPS survey and the client requests Table A item 2 (adjoiner information). What does this item typically require?

  1. The names of adjoining owners and the recording references for their parcels. Correct answer.
  2. The zoning classification of adjoining parcels.
  3. The assessed values of adjoining parcels.
  4. The flood zone designation of adjoining parcels.

Explanation

Adjoiner information typically includes the names of adjoining owners and the record references for their parcels, so the reader can identify the surrounding ownership. Assessed values, zoning, and flood zones are different items.

Question 46Field Track

In preparing an ALTA/NSPS survey, the surveyor must show the location of utility easements. What is the surveyor's obligation when a utility easement is disclosed in the commitment but its location is not described?

  1. Show the easement as an undimensioned note and state that its location is not of record. Correct answer.
  2. Omit the easement because its location is unknown.
  3. Show the easement only if the utility company provides a map.
  4. Draw the easement along the nearest property line as a reasonable assumption.

Explanation

When an easement is disclosed but its location is not of record, the surveyor notes the easement and discloses that its location is not established, rather than inventing a location or omitting it. Inventing a location would misrepresent the record.

Question 47Field Track

Which of the following is a required element of an ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey plat?

  1. A statement of the surveyor's opinion of title.
  2. A guarantee that the property is free of liens.
  3. A legal description prepared by the lender.
  4. The surveyor's certification, the date of survey, and a depiction of the boundary with the matters the standards require. Correct answer.

Explanation

The plat must include the surveyor's certification, the date of survey, and the depiction of the boundary and required matters. The surveyor does not opine on title, guarantee against liens, or rely on a lender-prepared description.

Question 48Field Track

A surveyor must determine whether a parcel is classified as urban, suburban, or rural for positional tolerance purposes. What is the most relevant consideration?

  1. The character and density of development in the area, along with the controls available, as described in the standards. Correct answer.
  2. The assessed value of the parcel.
  3. The surveyor's personal preference based on the difficulty of the field work.
  4. The zoning classification assigned by the local jurisdiction alone.

Explanation

The classification depends on the character and density of development and the controls available, as the standards describe. It is not determined by the surveyor's preference, assessed value, or zoning designation alone.

Question 49Field Track

On an ALTA/NSPS survey, what is the purpose of showing the adjoining property lines and the names of adjoining owners when adjoiner information is requested?

  1. To replace the need for a title commitment.
  2. To satisfy a requirement that the surveyor contact all adjoining owners.
  3. To allow the reader to understand the relationship of the subject parcel to surrounding ownership and to identify potential boundary issues. Correct answer.
  4. To establish the market value of the subject parcel.

Explanation

Adjoiner information helps the reader see how the subject parcel relates to surrounding ownership and where boundary or access issues may arise. It does not establish value, require contacting neighbors, or replace the commitment.

Question 50Field Track

A surveyor discovers that a recorded easement crosses the subject parcel, but the field evidence shows the utility line running along a different alignment. How should the surveyor treat this on an ALTA/NSPS survey?

  1. Show only the record easement and ignore the field evidence.
  2. Show neither, because the discrepancy makes the information unreliable.
  3. Show the record easement and the observed utility alignment, and note the discrepancy. Correct answer.
  4. Show only the field evidence and ignore the record easement.

Explanation

The surveyor depicts both the record easement and the observed utility alignment and notes the discrepancy, allowing the client and title insurer to evaluate it. Suppressing either the record or the observed evidence would mislead the reader.