Definition
A recorded plat (or record plat) is the official subdivision map filed with county records. Recording is what makes the subdivision legal and creates new separate properties from the original parcel. Before recording, it's just a proposal. After recording, each lot becomes a separate property.
Where you’ll meet it
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See it in Dividing land · Step 3About this term
Record plat (recorded plat) is official subdivision document filed with county recorder. Plat shows: lot divisions, road layouts, easement locations, covenant areas, lot numbering, scale, surveyor certification. Recording creates legal effect: each lot becomes separately owned property. Record plat is essential document: title insurance based on recorded plat, property descriptions refer to recorded plat, lot ownership determined by recorded plat. Plat certification: licensed surveyor must certify plat accuracy. County recorder indexes plat: assigned plat number (used in property descriptions), recorded with deed records. Plat errors create title problems: incorrect lot boundaries, missing easements, improper recording. Correcting recorded plat requires: amended plat (recorded over original), potentially quiet title action (court clarification). Understanding recorded plat: it's legal foundation for separate lot ownership. Every property in subdivision has legal description referencing recorded plat.
Pro Tip
Recording the plat is the moment your subdivision becomes real. Properties can now be sold and financed separately. This is a major milestone that affects your entire project timeline.
Example
Subdivision recorded as 'Lot 5, Block 2, Sunset Heights Subdivision No. 1, recorded in Plat Book 456, page 123.'