Plat
A plat is a detailed map or survey of a piece of land that shows the boundaries, dimensions, and location of individual lots within a subdivision or development. It includes information about streets, easements, utilities, and other important features that affect property ownership and use. Plats must be approved by local authorities and recorded with the county before lots can be sold.
Example
“Before we could build, we had to file a plat with the county showing how we planned to subdivide the 40-acre parcel into residential lots.”
Memory Tip
A plat is like a 'flat' map that lays out all the property lines and details on paper.
Why It Matters
Plats establish legal property boundaries and reveal easements or restrictions that could affect your ability to build, fence, or modify your property.
Common Misconception
Property owners often assume their deed description is sufficient for boundary disputes, but the recorded plat is the definitive legal document for lot boundaries.
In Practice
During a property survey, the surveyor will reference the original plat to locate your exact property corners and identify any easements. If you're planning a fence or addition, checking the plat helps ensure you're building within your property lines.
Etymology
Derived from the Old French 'plat' meaning flat or level ground, originally referring to a flat piece of land that could be easily mapped and divided.
Common Misspellings
Compare today's mortgage rates
More in real estate
Other real estate terms you should know
Need financial definitions?
Clear definitions for 2,500+ finance, insurance, and investing terms.