Written by Anna Hellman
Accurately and uniformly measuring property boundaries has presented challenges so the government created 3 legal methods.
No matter the chosen method, the precision of the property survey is absolutely crucial. An error in a lot measurement can contribute to a loss of property size and a decrease in the value of the land. The 3 methods that we will further look into include metes & bounds, subdivision plat lot & block number, and government rectangular survey.
Metes & Bounds.
Metes refers to “measures” while bounds refers to “identifiable boundaries”. This is the oldest method that uses reference points around the property in order to create property markers. These reference points are often rocks, trees, and other identifiable objects. To establish the precise land measurement, the surveyor will include the compass direction, the measured distance, and the degrees of rotation at each turning point, in relation to the reference points.
- Pro: The most adjustable method, which makes it popular for irregularly sized lots.
- Con: The measurements can only be read and understood by a surveyor.
Subdivision Plat Lot & Block Number.
Land that has been measured using this method is often intended for urban subdivisions. In order for a platted subdivision to be created, a map of the subdivision must be filed on public record. On that map, the land will be divided into parcels that will each receive a plat lot and block number.
- Pro: The maps of the subdivisions often include other important sites, such as drainage and utility locations.
- Con: This method can only be primary used for subdivision’s measurements.
Government Rectangular Survey.
Properties that are measured using this method are based off of a complex grid system. Government rectangular surveys were first used in the Northwest. For these measurements, the land is divided into regions with a baseline heading East and West, and a principal meridian going North and South. From here, the land is divided into checks, townships, and sections. While townships and sections are often subdivided even more, the division of sections creates acres. Acres are widely used to measure large amounts of land. These parameters create a grid system that produces boundaries and measurements used to commonly measure rural land.
- Pro: Can be used to easily measure large areas of land.
- Con: Due to the grid system, it is hard to measure irregularly shaped lots.
Often the way your property is measured is based off of its location and size. For example, farming land would most likely be measured using a government rectangular survey while a boarding facility on an irregularly shaped lot would use metes & bounds. In order to ensure that your lot is measured correctly, you must find a qualified and knowledgeable surveyor!
Citation:
Ling, David C., and Wayne R. Archer. “Legal and Regulatory Determinants of Value.” Real Estate Principles: A Value Approach. 4th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2013. 59-65. Print.
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