Land Descriptions | Metes & Bounds + Lot & Block + Govt Survey
The three primary types of legal / land descriptions used in real estate are metes and bounds, recorded plat (map), and rectangular survey (government survey). Each serves a specific purpose and is commonly employed based on the location, size, and context of the property.
Metes and Bounds
Description Method: Metes and bounds is one of the oldest methods of legal description, relying on the description of the property’s boundaries in terms of distances (metes) and angles (bounds). The starting point, or Point of Beginning (POB), is identified, and each boundary is sequentially described using compass directions and distances.
Uses: Commonly used in areas with irregular or non-rectangular shapes, where the flexibility of describing boundaries based on physical features is essential.
- Example: “Commencing at the large oak tree on the bank of the river, thence following the riverbank in a southerly direction for 300 feet, then turning west at a right angle for 200 feet…”
Recorded Plat (Map / Lot & Block)
Description Method: Recorded plat or map descriptions rely on a surveyed map or plat that divides a larger piece of land into lots, blocks, and streets. Each lot is assigned a unique number or letter, and the legal description refers to this recorded map, providing details about the lot, block, and any other relevant information.
Uses: Commonly used in subdivisions and urban areas where properties are part of a larger development with standardized lot sizes and layouts.
- Example: “Lot 15, Block C of Green Meadows Subdivision, as recorded in Plat Book 123, Page 456 of the County Recorder’s Office…”
Rectangular Survey (Government Survey / PLSS)
Description Method: The rectangular survey system, often used in the U.S., divides land into a grid of squares called townships and sections. Each section is one square mile (640 acres), and the legal description identifies the section, township, and range. It utilizes meridians and baselines as reference lines.
Uses: Predominantly used in large tracts of land, especially in the western United States, providing a systematic and standardized way to describe and locate parcel’s.
- Example: “The Northwest quarter of Section 22, Township 3 South, Range 2 East, Meridian County…”
Choosing the appropriate legal description method depends on factors such as the property’s location, size, and the local land surveying and recording practices. Professional assistance from surveyors and real estate attorneys is often sought to ensure accuracy and compliance with local regulations when dealing with legal descriptions.
Disclaimer: The information presented here is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for legal or financial advice. Real estate matters, including legal descriptions, can be intricate and are subject to jurisdictional nuances. It is imperative to consult with qualified professionals such as real estate attorneys, surveyors, or other experts to obtain advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
