Legal Descriptions

What is a Legal Description?

A legal description is written information describing a specific piece of land which may be used for defining property ownership or the location of an easement. Some legal descriptions contain a few sentences while others are more complicated.

The legal description not only indicates the block, the subdivision and the lot, it also includes the government’s survey, and the “metes and bounds”. Metes and bounds is a method where the property is described according to its distance, its landmark and its angle.

Why is it Important?

Legal descriptions are important for a number of reasons including the following situations:

• Buying and Selling Property: A legal description is the most important, accurate and reliable source of information when buying real estate. A legal description is used in the deed when transferring title to real estate.
• Redefining Property Lines: When two property owners agree to pursue a lot line adjustment, new legal descriptions will be required along with the updated survey documents for both properties.
• Subdividing a Lot:  Prospective clients that would like to sub-divide a large parcel into smaller parcels, will need a Parcel Map or a Tract Map that would be filed with the County as well as new legal descriptions.

How can TKM Land Surveyors Help?

TKM Land Surveyors has the experience and knowledge required to effectively write legal descriptions. Researching County records is a critical step in the process. TKM Land Surveyors is ready to assist you in preparing legal descriptions for leases, easements, deeds and other documents that affect your real estate closing or land planning requirements.