What Is a Legal Description?
A legal description of land is a formal, legally recognized way of defining the exact boundaries and location of a property. Unlike a postal address, it provides precise geographic details used in:
- Deeds and titles
- Surveys and plats
- Contracts and legal filings
It ensures there is no ambiguity about the parcel’s identity in real estate transactions and legal matters.
Types of Legal Descriptions
There are several common forms of legal descriptions:
- Metes and bounds: Describes the land using physical features, directions, and distances from a defined starting point.
- Lot and block: Used in subdivisions, referencing recorded plats (e.g., “Lot 5, Block A, Oakwood Estates”).
- Government rectangular survey system: Common in the U.S., using townships, ranges, and sections.
Each format provides a standardized method to uniquely identify a parcel of land on official records.
Where to Find the Legal Description
To locate the legal description for a property, you can:
- Review the property deed or title document
- Access public land records at the county recorder or land registry office
- Order a preliminary title report from a title company
- Look at the property tax statement or assessor’s parcel map, which often includes a summary legal description
For development or boundary verification, a certified land survey provides the most accurate and updated version.
Why the Legal Description Is Important
A correct legal description is essential for:
- Ownership verification and transfers
- Boundary dispute resolution
- Obtaining permits and approvals
- Preparing contracts, easements, and legal filings
Inaccuracies or omissions in the legal description can lead to title issues, delays in closing, or even litigation, making it crucial to confirm its accuracy.