Definition
Metes and bounds is a method used to describe land by detailing the boundaries using physical features, directions, and distances. This system relies on natural landmarks and man-made markers to define the perimeter of a parcel of land. Typically used before a piece of land has been platted into lots, it provides an intricate and precise way to describe a property in legal terms.
Examples
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Example 1: A land description using metes and bounds might start at a known natural landmark, such as a large oak tree, and follow compass directions and specified distances to other points around the property, eventually returning to the original starting point.
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Example 2: “Starting at the large boulder on the northwest corner of the property, go East 150 feet to the old fence line; then South 80 feet to the edge of the creek; follow the creek westward for 120 feet…”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “metes” and “bounds” refer to?
- Metes refers to the measurement of distance using direction and length (e.g., “north 150 feet”).
- Bounds are used to describe less specific references often related to features or boundaries like a river, street, or an existing building.
How is metes and bounds different from the lot and block method?
- The lot and block method is used once a larger piece of land is subdivided into smaller parcels (e.g., for residential developments). Each parcel is given a lot number and the plat is recorded with the local government.
- Metes and bounds, on the other hand, delineate boundaries in detailed terms before such subdivision.
What happens if the physical landmarks used in a metes and bounds description disappear or change?
- Surveyors use precise measurements and angles to recreate the outlined perimeter even if landmarks change. Comments on the original description and historic documents can provide further assistance.
Is a metes and bounds description still legally valid today?
- Yes, it remains a valid and commonly used method for describing property boundaries, especially in areas that haven’t been platted.
How detailed should a metes and bounds description be?
- It must be sufficiently detailed to allow a professional surveyor to trace the exact boundaries of the property without relying on the ambiguous interpretation of physical landmarks.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Platted Lot: A parcel of land that has been mapped out into lots, often using the lot and block method, and recorded with the local municipality.
- Lot and Block Method: A system of identifying parcels of land by reference to the subdivided lot number and the block number within a referenced plat.
- Surveying: The technique, profession, and science of determining the terrestrial or three-dimensional positions of points and the distances and angles between such points.
- Legal Description: A formal description of real estate property used to legally define the scope and extent of ownership.
Online Resources
- US Geological Survey (USGS) - Provides tools and resources for land surveying.
- National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) - Offers expertise, resources, and guidelines for professional surveyors.
- American Congress on Surveying and Mapping (ACSM) - An organization that aids professionals in the surveying and mapping fields.
References
- “Surveying and Land Information Science” by the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping
- “Boundary Control and Legal Principles” by Curtis M. Brown, Walter G. Robillard, and Donald A. Wilson
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “America’s Public Lands: From Yellowstone to Smokey Bear and Beyond” by Randall K. Wilson - A comprehensive look at public land surveying and demarcation.
- “Evidence and Procedures for Boundary Location” by Donald A. Wilson and Walter G. Robillard - Offers valuable insights into the principles of boundary location and monumentation.
- “Manual of Instruction for the Survey of the Public Lands of the United States” by the Department of the Interior - A technical manual providing detailed procedures used in public land surveys.
Real Estate Basics: Metes and Bounds Fundamentals Quiz
### What do 'metes' represent in the term 'metes and bounds'?
- [x] Measurement of distance using direction and length.
- [ ] Natural landmarks.
- [ ] A method of zoning.
- [ ] Recorded lot number.
> **Explanation:** 'Metes' refer to the specific measurements of distance utilizing direction and exact length, specifying how far and which way to go from a certain starting point.
### What do 'bounds' commonly describe in a land description?
- [ ] Detailed compass directions.
- [ ] Length in feet.
- [x] Natural or man-made landmarks.
- [ ] Plate tectonics.
> **Explanation:** 'Bounds' are descriptors often referring to less specific features such as natural formations or pre-existing markers like rivers, streets, or fences.
### Which land description method is typically used after subdividing the land?
- [x] Lot and Block Method
- [ ] Metes and Bounds
- [ ] Elevation Drawing
- [ ] CRMLS
> **Explanation:** The lot and block method is employed after larger parcels of land are subdivided into lots. These lots are recorded, enabling easier reference and distribution.
### What might cause a metes and bounds landmark to be unreliable over time?
- [ ] Changing property laws.
- [ ] Building demolitions.
- [x] Landmarks such as trees might die or get removed, and man-made markers might deteriorate.
- [ ] Increasing property taxes.
> **Explanation:** Physical changes such as the disappearance of natural or man-made landmarks can render metes and bounds descriptions unreliable if not updated accordingly.
### What characteristic of parcels most likely makes metes and bounds descriptions complex?
- [ ] Rectangular shape of the parcels.
- [ ] Numerous development zones.
- [ ] Frequent zoning changes.
- [x] Irregular shapes with various natural and man-made landmarks.
> **Explanation:** The complexity arises from the irregular shapes and diverse physical features used to represent the boundaries.
### Why might a professional surveyor be needed when interpreting a metes and bounds description?
- [ ] Because of excessive paperwork involved.
- [ ] To create legal property descriptions.
- [x] To accurately trace property boundaries based on the detailed metes and bounds description.
- [ ] To manage property taxes and assessments.
> **Explanation:** Professional surveyors can accurately trace the described boundaries, ensuring correct interpretation and validation of the property lines based on the metes and bounds description.
### Which aspect distinguishes metes and bounds from plat maps?
- [x] Uses physical features as references.
- [ ] Records ownership details.
- [ ] Simplifies land transactions.
- [ ] Specifies property improvements.
> **Explanation:** Metes and bounds descriptions uniquely utilize physical features like trees, rocks, and streams as reference points, unlike plat maps which generally rely on systematic lot numbering.
### Is metes and bounds method still legally acceptable?
- [ ] No, it has been replaced completely by the lot and block method.
- [x] Yes, it remains a valid method for describing property boundaries.
- [ ] Only in rural areas.
- [ ] Only in urban zones.
> **Explanation:** This traditional land description method is still legally acceptable and widely in use for defining property boundaries.
### Who typically records a platted lot with the local government?
- [ ] Landowners.
- [ ] Real estate agents.
- [ ] Title companies.
- [x] Surveyors.
> **Explanation:** Surveyors play a key role in mapping out and recording platted lots with local government authorities for public records.
### What online resource offers tools and resources for land surveying?
- [ ] Realtor.com
- [ ] Zillow
- [x] US Geological Survey (USGS)
- [ ] National Association of Realtors (NAR)
> **Explanation:** The USGS provides individuals and professionals with a wealth of tools and resources pertinent to land surveying.
