This is something which more folks should do before they buy a property. Look at the recorded plat. But how do I find it?
It’s much easier than you think. First, start with the address of property you are interested in. Let’s use an example of 728 Westwind Drive in the Village of North Palm Beach. Go to the local property appraisers web site, so PAPA for Palm Beach County, and look up the record. Once you have it click on the link to the last Warranty Deed listed under the “Sales Information”. This will bring you to the Clerk of Courts web site.
Now click on the “Get Image” tab and read the deed. This one says, in part…
So this property is Lot 11 of Block 43 on the Plat recorded in Plat Book 26 pages 10 to 12. Now we know the book and page of the plat book. Stay on this page at the Clerk’s web site and click on “Search Results” and then “New Search”. Select the tab for a search by book and page and then select plat book from the drop down. Search for 26/10 and there it is.
A rectangular 80 x 120 lot with a 6′ utility easement along the rear property line. Note that lot 14 has a utility easement along the side property line as well. And, if you were buying a waterfront lot on this plat you may note the inclusion of accepted use restrictions…
And there we have it. Any questions, you may call me at the office at 561.626.8550.
