What is a plat in real estate? Where can you find yours?

Understanding what is a plat in real estate is important for anyone who is associated with the industry. These essential tools are used by land surveyors, developers, and local governments to ensure accurate land division and legal property descriptions. But, how does that happen? Let’s find out, here. 

So, what is a plat in real estate?

A plat, aka a plat map, is a detailed, drawn-to-scale map that outlines the divisions of a piece of land. It shows property boundaries, lot numbers, and various other features of a tract of land. So when a larger tract of land is subdivided into smaller parcels, plats are created. These smaller parcels or plats can then be sold or developed separately. The plat map serves as a legal document that is recorded in public records. It provides a visual representation of the property lines, easements, flood zones, where all the utilities are, and other important details about the land.

Keep in mind that a plat map is different from a plot map. A plat map usually covers a big chunk of land and shows how it’s split into different lots. On the other hand, a plot map is all about a single piece of land. Since plot maps focus on one lot, you might get a plot map instead of a plat when you’re buying a home.

Why are plats important in the real estate industry?

If you are a property owner, or planning to become one, these plat maps can be useful in showing detailed info about any piece of real estate. They can be key for sorting out any property disputes, planning construction, land surveys, and understanding zoning laws and building codes. Furthermore, with accurate plat maps, it’s easier to figure out a property’s value or its potential for future development.

Plat maps often include information about flood zones, which are areas prone to flooding. This is crucial for property owners and developers when planning construction and obtaining insurance.

Since plats pinpoint where buildings, access points, and utilities are, they can be vital during a natural disaster or other emergencies. Plus, plat maps are great for historical research, helping historians and genealogists track how a community has grown and changed over time.

What are the common types of plat maps?

There are several types of plat maps, each serving different purposes in real estate. These are:

Preliminary plat

A preliminary plat is an initial, unapproved drawing of a proposed subdivision. It includes essential details and is used to gather feedback from the local government and other stakeholders.

Final plat

Once the preliminary plat is approved, a final plat is created, incorporating any necessary changes. This plat is then submitted for official approval and recording.

Plat of consolidation

This type of plat combines multiple smaller parcels into a single larger parcel. It is often used for developments or when a property owner wants to combine adjacent lots.

Read more: What is plottage in real estate?

Short plat

A short plat is used when land is being divided into typically four or fewer separate plots.

Amending plat and vacating plats

Sometimes, property owners may need to vacate a plat or make amendments. An amending plat is used to make minor corrections to an existing plat, such as adjusting lot lines or correcting errors without vacating it entirely.

Vacating a plat involves legally nullifying the recorded plat, typically when a subdivision is being dissolved or redesigned. 

How can I get the plat map for my property?

Since plat maps are public records, they’re usually pretty easy to track down if you didn’t get one from your title company initially. Here’s what you can do to get your plat map:

• Check with your local government office. Or peruse their website for all available maps.
• Give your title company a call and ask for a copy of the plat map. They should have it on file.
• Review your home purchase documents. There’s a good chance the plat map is in there.

Read more: What is a buffer zone in real estate?

How can I read a plat map?

Reading a plat map can seem daunting at first, but it’s essential for understanding property boundaries and other critical information. Here are a few elements to look for:

• Lot numbers: Each parcel of land is assigned a lot number, which helps identify individual properties within a subdivision.
• Property lines: These lines define the boundaries of each lot, showing the exact dimensions and shape of the property.
• Easements: Easements are rights granted to other parties to use a portion of the land for specific purposes, such as utilities or access roads.
• Scale: The scale of the map indicates the ratio of the drawing to the actual size of the land. It helps to determine distances accurately.

What’s the role of the local government and title companies in creating plat maps?

Local governments play a significant role in the platting process. They review and approve these plats to ensure they comply with zoning laws, subdivision regulations, and other local ordinances. Once approved, plats are recorded in public records, making them accessible to anyone interested in the property.

Title companies also rely on plat maps during the title search process. They use these maps to verify property boundaries, easements, and other details. And, all these might affect the ownership and use of the land. This helps ensure a clear title and prevents disputes over property lines.

Last thoughts

In the world of real estate, a plat map is a fundamental document that provides a clear, detailed depiction of property boundaries and other vital information. Understanding what is a plat in real estate, how to get a plat map, and interpret it is important. Whether you’re dealing with residential lots, commercial properties, or large tracts of land, a plat map is an indispensable tool that ensures clarity, accuracy, and legal compliance in land division and development.

Written by Ramona Sinha. July 15, 2024

Ramona is the Senior Content Writer for Kukun. This experienced blogger uses simple and succinct words to decipher the complex phenomenon called life. She has written articles covering a broad range of topics, such as real estate, lending and mortgage, finance, business, taxation, home designs, home improvement projects, decor concepts, and more. An avid traveler, she’s a digital nomad at heart and an animal lover from the depth of her soul.