Metes and Bounds
Metes and bounds is the oldest legal description method for real property, using physical features, distances (metes), and directions (bounds) to define property boundaries, starting and ending at a point of beginning.
Exam Tip
Metes = measurements (distance). Bounds = boundaries (direction). Must return to POB (Point of Beginning). Oldest description method!
What is Metes and Bounds?
Metes and bounds is a system of describing land using physical features, compass directions, and distances. It's the oldest method of legal description, originating from English common law. The description traces the property's perimeter, starting and ending at the same point.
Key Terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Metes | Measurements (distances) |
| Bounds | Boundaries (directions, landmarks) |
| Point of Beginning (POB) | Starting point of description |
| Monument | Physical marker (natural or artificial) |
Components of a Metes and Bounds Description
| Element | Example |
|---|---|
| POB | "Beginning at the iron pin at the NE corner..." |
| Direction | "thence South 45 degrees East..." |
| Distance | "...a distance of 200 feet..." |
| Monument | "...to an oak tree on the west bank..." |
| Return to POB | "...thence returning to the point of beginning" |
Example Description
"Beginning at the iron pin at the intersection of Main Street and Oak Avenue; thence North 90 degrees East along Main Street 100 feet to an iron pin; thence South 0 degrees East 150 feet to an iron pin; thence South 90 degrees West 100 feet to an iron pin on Oak Avenue; thence North 0 degrees East along Oak Avenue 150 feet to the point of beginning."
Types of Monuments
| Natural Monuments | Artificial Monuments |
|---|---|
| Trees | Iron pins |
| Rivers/streams | Fences |
| Rocks | Roads |
| Ridge lines | Buildings |
| Lakes | Survey markers |
Metes and Bounds vs. Other Systems
| System | Used For | Description Method |
|---|---|---|
| Metes and Bounds | Irregular parcels | Directions and distances |
| Rectangular Survey | Western states | Township, range, section |
| Lot and Block | Subdivisions | Plat map reference |
Advantages and Disadvantages
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Describes irregular shapes | Complex descriptions |
| Flexible | Monuments may move/disappear |
| Works anywhere | Errors compound |
| Historical use | Harder to visualize |
Common Issues
| Problem | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Gap | Description doesn't close |
| Overlap | Boundaries cross |
| Missing monument | Can't locate boundary |
| Conflicting calls | Ambiguous description |
Priority of Calls
When descriptions conflict, courts generally prioritize:
- Natural monuments (highest)
- Artificial monuments
- Courses (directions)
- Distances
- Area/quantity (lowest)
Study This Term In
Related Terms
Survey (Real Estate)
Real EstateA survey is a professional measurement and mapping of a property that shows its boundaries, dimensions, improvements, and relationship to adjoining properties, often required for real estate transactions.
Plat (Plat Map)
Real EstateA plat is a surveyed map of a subdivision showing the division of land into lots, blocks, streets, and common areas, recorded in public records to create legal descriptions for each parcel.
Deed
Real EstateA deed is a legal document that transfers ownership (title) of real property from one party to another.