Metes and Bounds Explained

What is it?

Metes and bounds is a system of land description that identifies a property's boundaries by referencing natural or man-made landmarks, distances, and angles. "Metes" refers to the distances and directions of the boundary lines, while "bounds" refers to the physical features that define the corners or limits of the parcel, such as trees, streams, or stone monuments. The description starts at a specific "point of beginning" and traces the perimeter of the property, eventually returning to the starting point to form a complete enclosure. This method is one of the oldest forms of legal land description, common in the original thirteen U.S. colonies.

Why is it trending?

While not a new concept, metes and bounds is increasingly relevant in real estate discussions involving older properties, rural land, and boundary disputes. As more people buy historic homes or undeveloped land, they encounter deeds with these complex descriptions. The need for precise land surveys before construction or sale highlights the importance of accurately interpreting these historical records. Legal professionals and surveyors are frequently discussing the challenges and nuances of translating these often archaic descriptions into modern digital mapping formats like GPS.

How does it affect people?

For property owners, a metes and bounds description is the legal definition of their land. It directly impacts their property rights, dictating where they can build fences, sheds, or additions. Misinterpreting these descriptions can lead to costly legal disputes with neighbors over boundary lines. For potential buyers, understanding the metes and bounds is crucial for due diligence to ensure the property they are purchasing matches the legal description in the deed and to secure clear title insurance, preventing future ownership conflicts and ensuring the value of their investment.

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