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An ALTA survey is the gold standard in real estate due diligence. It combines boundary, title, easement, and improvement data into one comprehensive report. Whether you’re buying land for a new development or financing a commercial project, AJC provides ALTA surveys that meet lender, title company, and zoning requirements—ensuring smoother closings and fewer surprises down the road.

As Kentucky and Tennessee continue to grow, preserving open space isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about public health, drainage, biodiversity, and property value. At AJC, we work with clients to integrate greenspace into developments by mapping tree canopies, identifying wetlands, and helping balance zoning requirements with long-term site health. We believe strong communities are built on thoughtful planning—not just square footage.

Surveying isn’t just about boundary lines—it’s about protecting resources while enabling smart growth. At AJC, we’re proud to support eco-friendly development through: Wetland & stream delineation surveys  for permitting Tree preservation and canopy mapping  for site planning Minimizing earth disturbance  through precise grading Drainage design collaboration  that mimics natural flows Identifying flood zones and steep slopes  before construction begins Land stewardship starts with knowing the land. Surveying gives project teams the data they need to build smarter—not just faster. Let AJC help make your next project environmentally sound from the start.

Never worked with a land surveyor before? Here's what a typical site visit looks like—and how you can prepare. At AJC, we make site visits efficient and respectful of your land. Our crews will: Review the scope  beforehand (boundary, topo, construction layout, etc.) Coordinate site access  and safety concerns Use equipment  like GPS, total stations, or drones Flag lines  or set markers for visibility Document conditions  for office processing We may ask about utility access, locked gates, pets, or specific landmarks mentioned in deeds. We always notify clients if more time, research, or permitting is needed based on what we find. Working with us is straightforward. If we’re visiting your site soon, just let us know how to reach you and where to park—we’ll handle the rest!

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Did you know the time of year you schedule a survey can impact turnaround time and field results? In Kentucky and Tennessee, spring rains, summer vegetation, fall clarity, and winter access each bring pros and cons. At AJC, we help clients plan accordingly. Spring: Great for construction layout—but soggy conditions can limit access. Summer: Prime time for volume, but overgrown brush can block sight lines. Fall: Ideal balance of stable weather, dry conditions, and visibility. Winter: Good for wooded parcels, but ice and snow slow fieldwork. We encourage clients to plan ahead—especially for large projects, ALTA surveys, and FEMA certifications. Need a survey this year? Let’s schedule smart to avoid delays.

Long before GIS, satellites, or even paved roads, land surveyors were carving order into wilderness. In both Kentucky and Tennessee, surveying played a pivotal role in defining counties, roads, and private land boundaries that still stand today. Early American settlers relied on surveyors to mark claims in the expanding frontier. These original “lines in the woods” defined farms, towns, and entire counties. In Kentucky, Virginia land grants fueled early surveying, while Tennessee used North Carolina’s military land grants to parcel its new territory. Some of these early surveys used natural features—like trees, streams, or rocks—as markers. At AJC, we still uncover those original “boundary stones” in the field. They're reminders that today's property lines rest on centuries-old work. Understanding this history isn’t just interesting—it’s practical. Many modern boundary disputes can be traced back to historical plats, deed calls, or missing monuments. Want to uncover the story behind your property line? AJC’s surveyors connect past and present with clarity.

In East Tennessee, smart development requires more than vision—it takes detailed planning, environmental understanding, and proactive coordination. That’s where AJC Knoxville comes in. We support builders, municipalities, and landowners at every phase of the project lifecycle: 1. Planning:  Our team helps you evaluate slope, access, drainage, and zoning regulations before the design phase begins. 2. Surveying:  From rural parcels in Blount County to urban infill in Knoxville, we provide accurate topographic, boundary, and utility surveys using traditional and LiDAR tools. 3. Design Collaboration:  AJC works closely with engineers and architects to turn concepts into code-compliant site plans. 4. Permitting Assistance:  Need floodplain certification or construction staking for final inspections? We’ve got you covered. Our local knowledge and responsive service help projects get off the ground—and stay on track. CTA: Planning a new site in East Tennessee? Start smart with AJC Knoxville on your team from the first line drawn to the final permit approved.

As Knoxville and surrounding areas grow, developers face increasing pressure to meet both community demand and environmental expectations. At AJC Knoxville, we help clients strike that balance by planning projects that are efficient, durable, and ecologically sound. Our sustainable site development support includes: Surveys for renewable infrastructure (like solar-ready lots) Site layout with minimal grading and tree preservation Strategies to reduce impervious surfaces and promote infiltration Environmental coordination for stream buffers and wetlands From industrial parks to public greenways, our goal is to support development that respects East Tennessee’s unique terrain and ecology. Sustainability is more than a trend—it's the foundation for long-term success. CTA: Want to reduce your project’s footprint and stay ahead of evolving regulations? Connect with AJC Knoxville’s sustainable development team.

East Tennessee’s wetlands are essential to the health of our watersheds and communities. These natural areas slow floodwaters, recharge aquifers, and provide habitat for everything from salamanders to waterfowl. But as Knoxville continues to grow, understanding and protecting wetlands has never been more important. At AJC Knoxville, we partner with developers, municipalities, and homeowners to help them build smarter—respecting nature while achieving project goals. When wetlands are involved, timing is everything. We coordinate with environmental professionals and regulatory agencies to map out wetland boundaries before designs are finalized. With our detailed survey data and knowledge of Tennessee’s topography, our clients can avoid costly permitting surprises and keep projects on track. Whether it’s a greenway extension, utility relocation, or new commercial build, we help ensure construction aligns with environmental requirements. East Tennessee is rich in natural beauty. At AJC, we’re proud to support growth that honors that legacy. Call to Action: Planning a site near a wetland or floodplain in East Tennessee? Talk to AJC Knoxville about survey support that protects your timeline—and the environment.

With so many free LiDAR resources available, why not take advantage of them when developing concept plans?

On April 11, 2025 , Governor signed Senate Bill 980 (also House Bill 480), amending Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) to strengthen real estate deed precision. The legislation took effect immediately. What the Law Requires SB 980 amends TCA § 66-5-104 (within Title 66, Ch. 5, Pt. 1) to state: “The description of real property contained within a deed of conveyance of a property not previously described in a recorded instrument must be prepared by a land surveyor … registered pursuant to § 62‑18‑101.” Key takeaways : Applies to any deed conveying property newly described (i.e., not tied to an earlier deed or recorded survey). Exempts deeds prepared by or for government agencies or departments . Registered land surveyor must comply with TCA Title 62 requirements for licensure Why This Matters Improves Legal Certainty Land surveyors provide precise metes-and-bounds legal descriptions, reducing boundary disputes. Professional Accountability Only licensed professionals can certify descriptions—elevating quality and liability. Supports Title & Lending Practices More accurate legal descriptions facilitate smoother title insurance underwriting and lending workflows. Exemption for Public Projects Government-led land transfers remain free of surveyor-cost burdens. Annotated Code Snapshot TCA Reference Language Summary TCA § 66‑5‑104 Requires registered surveyor-prepared descriptions for deeds describing new land parcels; exempts government gravels. TCA § 62‑18‑101 Defines "land surveyor" and sets licensure standards in Tennessee. Who’s Affected? Title companies & lenders – must verify new deeds include surveyor-prepared legal descriptions. Buyers/sellers of raw or subdivided land – now responsible for hiring licensed surveyors. Attorneys & real estate professionals – must update deed preparation practices to comply. Government entities – exempt; can continue internal conveyance procedures. Action Steps for Stakeholders Title Professionals Add compliance check: for new property descriptions, include a registered surveyor's certification. Developers & Attorneys Budget for surveyor fees when preparing new subdivisions or repositioned parcels. Real Estate Vendors Update transaction checklists and disclose the need for licensed surveyor involvement. Final Thoughts SB 980 strengthens Tennessee’s deed conveyance framework by mandating licensed surveyor involvement in initial property descriptions. Though it may add upfront costs, this requirement promotes: Greater boundary accuracy Legal clarity Reliability in title and lending workflows This law reflects a broader national movement emphasizing professional accountability in property recordkeeping. Need help interpreting how SB 980 affects your next land deal, or want assistance integrating it into your procedures? Happy to help—just reach out!