Survey vs. Plat in Texas: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know

by Keith & Sheila Campbell

Survey vs. Plat in Texas: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know

In Texas real estate, a survey is a precise, property-specific map created by a licensed surveyor, while a plat is the recorded subdivision map that shows how land is divided into lots and streets. Use this quick guide to understand when you need each—and why both matter during a purchase or sale.

📏 Example of a plat– showing lots and blocks.

 

📏 Example of a Survey– showing boundary lines, easements, and improvements.

Feature
Survey
Plat
Definition
Certified map by a licensed surveyor showing exact legal boundaries and the location of improvements/encroachments.
Recorded map filed with the county showing subdivision layout—lots, blocks, streets, and common areas.
Primary Purpose
Confirms boundaries; identifies improvements, easements, setbacks, and encroachments.
Establishes and records how a larger tract is subdivided for sale and development.
Detail Level
High—shows buildings, fences, driveways, utilities, easements, and more.
Overview—shows lot/block numbers, street rights-of-way, and subdivision boundaries.
Who Prepares It
Licensed Texas land surveyor.
Developer/land planner; recorded with county.
Typical Use
Purchases, refinances, new builds, boundary disputes; often required by lenders/title.
Subdivision approval and legal descriptions (e.g., “Lot 12, Block B, XYZ Subdivision”).
Shows Improvements?
✅ Yes
❌ No
Scope
📐 Custom—one specific property.
🗺️ Standardized—entire subdivision.
Texas Tip: The plat tells you where your lot sits within the subdivision. The survey tells you exactly what you own and where improvements sit on it—critical for title, lending, and avoiding encroachments.
Keith & Sheila Campbell

"Words cannot express our gratitude and thankfulness that Keith provided us when buying our home. Being a military family and not being able to physically be there is beyond challenging buying a house unseen. He made this whole process so pleasant and easy, always easing our minds because he had our complete best interests in his hands. He took the time to send videos, pictures, and did several walk-through of the home to make us feel like we were there. You can easily tell Keith has years of experience , always answering questions and helping us every step of the way! He was extremely helpful in guiding us through the process of buying our home, and making sure that everything was taken care of promptly and correctly. He has been nothing but extremely responsive and excellent since the first phone call! Keith is incredibly knowledgeable, a go-getter, and super professional. We truly sat in passenger seat and let Keith do the driving. He went above and beyond to find the perfect home for us. There's not another realtor out there that could've provided us with the ease and comfort knowing we were making all the right decisions! Keith and Sheila have our highest recommendation, and we wouldn’t ever want to work with any other agent. We will refer our friends and family to Keith and Sheila Realty again and again!" Nicole Olson - 2024

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