Is the legal description the same as the street address?

A legal description and a street address serve distinct purposes in property identification. The legal description is a precise and formal method of defining the boundaries and location of a parcel of real estate, often utilizing specific language that includes lot numbers, block numbers, and metes and bounds. It is designed to provide clarity and eliminate ambiguity, which is essential for legal matters, such as deeds, titles, and official records.

In contrast, a street address is a civic designation that provides a convenient way for people to locate a property in everyday situations. It may include the number and name of the street but does not convey the exact legal boundaries of the property. Street addresses can also change more easily than legal descriptions due to municipal decisions or developments.

Because of these differences, the fact that a legal description is not the same as a street address is clear. The legal description's specificity is vital in legal contexts, making it necessary for real estate transactions, title insurance, and disputes, whereas street addresses are primarily for navigation and communication.