What to Do if Legal Description Is Wrong

When it comes to real estate transactions, a legal description is an essential component in identifying a property. It provides precise details about the boundaries and location of the property, ensuring clarity and accuracy. However, mistakes can happen, and if you find that the legal description is wrong, it is crucial to address the issue promptly. In this article, we will explore what to do if you encounter an incorrect legal description in a real estate transaction.

1. What is a legal description?
A legal description is a detailed statement that identifies a specific piece of property. It typically includes information such as the lot number, block number, subdivision name, and boundaries of the property.

2. How can a legal description be wrong?
Errors in legal descriptions can occur due to human error, inaccuracies in surveys or documents, or changes in property boundaries that were not properly updated.

3. What issues can arise from an incorrect legal description?
An incorrect legal description can lead to confusion and disputes. It may result in the wrong property being bought or sold, boundary disputes with neighbors, or difficulties in obtaining financing or insurance.

4. What should I do if I discover a wrong legal description?
If you discover an incorrect legal description, you should notify all parties involved in the transaction, such as the buyer, seller, real estate agent, and attorney. It is crucial to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid complications down the line.

5. Who is responsible for correcting the legal description?
The responsibility for correcting the legal description depends on the circumstances. If the mistake was made by a professional involved in the transaction, such as a surveyor or attorney, they may be responsible for rectifying the error. However, if the mistake was made by the buyer or seller, they will likely need to take the necessary steps to fix the issue.

6. How is a wrong legal description corrected?
To correct a wrong legal description, the parties involved will need to file an amendment or correction deed with the appropriate county or municipal office. This document will clarify the accurate boundaries and details of the property.

7. Will correcting the legal description affect the transaction timeline?
Correcting a legal description may cause a delay in the transaction timeline. It will require additional paperwork and potentially involve contacting other parties, such as lenders or title companies, to update their records. However, the specific impact on the timeline will depend on the complexity of the correction and the cooperation of all parties involved.

8. Can a wrong legal description be resolved without legal action?
In most cases, a wrong legal description can be resolved without legal action. By notifying all parties involved and working together to file the necessary documents, the issue can typically be rectified. However, if disputes arise or parties are uncooperative, legal action may be necessary to resolve the matter.

9. How can I prevent a wrong legal description in the future?
To prevent a wrong legal description in the future, it is essential to work with qualified professionals, such as surveyors and attorneys, who can ensure accuracy. Double-checking all documents and conducting thorough due diligence can also help identify any potential errors before they cause significant issues.

In conclusion, discovering a wrong legal description in a real estate transaction can be concerning, but it is a problem that can be resolved. By promptly addressing the issue, working with the necessary parties, and filing the appropriate paperwork, you can rectify the mistake and proceed with the transaction smoothly. Remember, seeking legal advice from a professional is always advisable when dealing with such matters.