Metes And Bounds Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Metes And Bounds, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Metes And Bounds?

(n) Metes and bounds are the qualitative identification and descriptions about the property with which such property can be clearly identified and marked separately from the adjacent properties . Metes and bounds descriptions are recorded in the county records and deeds.

History and Meaning of Metes And Bounds

Metes and bounds is a system used for legally describing and defining the boundaries of a piece of property. It is the oldest form of land surveying and has been used since ancient times. The system's origins can be traced back to Anglo-Saxon England, where it was used to measure land for property taxation. Metes refers to the measurements of distance and direction, while bounds refer to the physical boundaries of the land.

The process of creating a metes and bounds description involves starting at a specific point on the land and walking the border, taking into account any physical boundaries such as fences or walls, and using landmarks or measurements to define the property lines. The description is then recorded in a legal document, such as a deed or survey, which is used to officially define the property and its boundaries.

Examples of Metes And Bounds

  1. The new homeowner requested a metes and bounds survey to determine the exact property lines of their new purchase.

  2. The dispute between the neighbors over the property line was resolved after a metes and bounds survey proved where the boundary was.

  3. The county registrar rejected the deed because it did not include a proper metes and bounds description of the property.

Legal Terms Similar to Metes And Bounds

  1. Land surveying: the process of measuring and mapping the boundaries of a piece of land.

  2. Deed: a legal document that transfers ownership or interest in a property from one party to another.

  3. Property boundary: the line that separates one person's property from another's.