Merestone
Definition and meaning of Merestone in real estate.
A merestone is a physical boundary marker, historically made of stone, concrete, or metal, placed at a specific corner or limit of a parcel of land to define its borders.
In more detail
While modern surveyors use advanced technology, these physical monuments remain critical legal reference points in land descriptions. The term originates from old English customs where stones were set in the ground to show where one property ended and another began. In modern surveying and real estate, merestones are used in conjunction with recorded plats and deeds to verify property lines and prevent encroachments.
If a property owner suspects a neighbor is building on their land, locating the official merestones or boundary pins is the first step in resolving the issue. Removing or altering a merestone is illegal in most jurisdictions and can lead to severe penalties.
Key facts
| Category | Legal, Titles & Closing |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Boundary marker, landmark, or monument |
| Materials | Stone, concrete blocks, or metal pins |
| Legal status | Illegal to move, damage, or destroy without proper authority |
A surveyor locating the boundaries of an old farm tract finds a large, partially buried granite merestone that marks the exact southwestern corner of the property as described in an old deed.
Frequently asked questions
Are merestones still used in modern real estate transactions?
Yes, physical monuments, including modern metal pins, are still placed by surveyors and referenced in legal property descriptions.
What should I do if my neighbor's fence crosses our shared merestone?
You should hire a licensed surveyor to conduct an official boundary survey and confirm if an encroachment has occurred before addressing the issue.