Property law: land, title & ownership

Property rules decide who owns what and what owners may do with it. First, the law separates land from movable things. Then it sets the rules for owning, transferring and using each kind.

Most of this area is state law. For example, each state has its own recording act, its own adverse possession periods and its own landlord-tenant statutes. In addition, the Fifth Amendment limits when government may take property.

Our guides start with the basic kinds of ownership and the estates in land. Next come deeds, recording and title. Then come adverse possession, easements, leases and takings.

Each guide cites the statute, constitution or case it relies on and links to the source. For a real estate matter, talk to a licensed attorney in your state.

Each guide cites its sources. For instance, the deeds and recording guide quotes state recording statutes from California, Massachusetts and North Carolina. You can also look up federal law in the United States Code. In addition, the glossary defines terms such as easement, quitclaim deed and fee simple.

However, local rules matter too. For example, county recorders set their own formatting and filing requirements, so check with the recorder before you file a deed.