Metes And Bounds Legal Definition

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Metes and bounds is a legal term typically used in real estate law. It refers to a description of a parcel of land that is specific and unambiguous. A metes and bounds description includes the location of the land using natural features such as rivers, ridges, and trees, and it also includes specific measurements of distance and direction.

A metes and bounds description is often contrasted with a more general description of land, such as “the property located at 123 Main Street.” A metes and bounds description is more specific and can be used to create a legal document such as a deed. It is also more difficult to dispute because it is based on specific measurements and features.

There are a few different ways to create a metes and bounds description. One common method is to use a surveying tool called a theodolite to measure the location of natural features and then draw boundaries between them. Another common method is to use a global positioning system (GPS) to create a digital map of the land and then use that map to create a metes and bounds description.

Metes and bounds descriptions are often used in conjunction with deeds. A deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of property from one person or entity to another. A deed typically includes a metes and bounds description of the property being transferred.

Metes and bounds descriptions can be useful for landowners who want to be sure that their property is clearly defined and protected. They can also be used to resolve disputes over the location of property boundaries.

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What is an example of a metes and bounds description?

A metes and bounds description is a legal term used to describe the boundaries of a parcel of land. It is usually used in legal documents such as deeds, mortgages and leases.

A metes and bounds description usually starts with the name of the landowner and the date of the document. It then describes the boundaries of the property, using natural landmarks and distances. For example, “The property is bounded by a stream to the north, a wooded area to the east, Mr. Brown’s farm to the south and Smith Road to the west.”

A metes and bounds description can be quite complex and detailed, particularly if the property is large. It is important to make sure that all the boundaries are accurately described, as any discrepancies could lead to legal disputes.

What terms are included in every metes and bounds legal description?

A metes and bounds legal description is a type of property description that uses natural features to define the boundaries of a parcel of land. It typically includes a series of specific distances and directions between landmarks, which serve to fix the location of the property.

The key terms that are typically included in a metes and bounds description are as follows:

– compass direction (e.g. “Northeast”)

– distance (e.g. “200 feet”)

– course (e.g. “along the edge of the property”)

– landmarks (e.g. “a large oak tree”)

It is important to note that a metes and bounds description is not a substitute for a legal survey, which is a more accurate means of determining a property’s boundaries. If there is any question about the accuracy of a metes and bounds description, it is recommended that you consult with a lawyer or surveyor.

When would a metes and bounds legal description most likely be used?

A metes and bounds legal description most likely would be used when a property needs to be specifically identified. For example, if two people are arguing over ownership of a piece of land, a metes and bounds description would be used to clarify the property’s exact boundaries.

A metes and bounds description is also used when a property is to be sold. The buyer and seller want to be sure that there are no disputes over the boundaries of the property before they make any agreements.

There are a few other occasions when a metes and bounds description might be used. For example, if a municipality wants to create a new zoning district, it might use a metes and bounds description to define the boundaries of the district.

The metes and bounds description is a very specific way of describing a property. It includes information about the location of the property, the direction of the boundaries, and the length of each boundary.

Are metes and bounds the same survey?

Metes and bounds is a common survey method used to define the boundaries of a piece of land. This type of survey is done by measuring the distances and angles between specific points called points of tangency, or “metes.” The distances between these points are called “bounds.”

Metes and bounds surveys can be used to create legal descriptions for a piece of property, which can be used to prove ownership or to describe the property in a legal document. The accuracy of a metes and bounds survey depends on the quality of the measurements and the drafting of the description.

Some people mistakenly believe that metes and bounds and cadastral surveys are the same thing. Cadastral surveys are a specific type of metes and bounds survey that uses a set of government-approved measurement standards.

Metes and bounds surveys can be used to create legal descriptions for a piece of property, which can be used to prove ownership or to describe the property in a legal document.

The accuracy of a metes and bounds survey depends on the quality of the measurements and the drafting of the description.

What are the disadvantages of metes and bounds?

Metes and bounds is a surveying system that defines land parcels by specifying their location with reference to a designated starting point and linear measurements along the boundaries of the parcel. While this system is simple and efficient for small parcels, it can be cumbersome and inaccurate for larger parcels.

One disadvantage of metes and bounds is that it can be difficult to determine the exact boundaries of a parcel. This can be a problem for landowners who need to know their property boundaries for legal or planning purposes. Additionally, because the system relies on linear measurements, it can be inaccurate when parcels have curved or irregular boundaries.

Another drawback of metes and bounds is that it can be difficult to modify or expand parcels. If a parcel needs to be enlarged, the entire boundary must be re-measured, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, because metes and bounds parcels are not generally subject to subdivision regulations, they can be subdivided into smaller parcels more easily than parcels that are defined by other surveying methods. This can lead to problems with property taxation and zoning.

Overall, metes and bounds is a simple and efficient system for defining small parcels of land. However, it can be cumbersome and inaccurate for larger parcels, and it can be difficult to modify or expand parcels using this system.

What is one drawback of a metes and bounds description?

A metes and bounds description is a legal term used to describe the shape and size of a piece of land. This type of description is often used in real estate transactions. While a metes and bounds description is a precise way to describe a piece of land, it can also be a drawback because it can be difficult to understand. Additionally, a metes and bounds description can be time-consuming to create.

How do you prepare a metes and bounds legal description?

A metes and bounds legal description is a description of a parcel of land that uses natural features of the land to identify the boundaries of the property. This type of description is often used for rural properties, where there are few man-made features to use as boundaries.

To prepare a metes and bounds description, you will need to identify the boundaries of the property using natural features such as hills, valleys, streams, and other landmarks. You will then need to describe these features in detail, using specific measurements and directions.

It is important to be precise when describing the boundaries of a property using a metes and bounds description. Any mistakes or inaccuracies in the description could lead to disputes over the ownership of the property. Therefore, it is a good idea to have a professional land surveyor prepare the description for you.

If you are preparing a metes and bounds description for your own property, be sure to research the area thoroughly and take accurate measurements. It is also a good idea to have a lawyer review the description to make sure that it is legal and accurate.

Metes And Bounds Legal Definition8 min read