Land records · Parcel maps · October 7, 2026
Condo Unit Deed: What It Conveys and Shows
What a condo unit deed conveys: the unit, an undivided share of common elements, and rights under the declaration. How to read a unit deed.
Condo unit deed is the deed used to transfer ownership of a condominium unit. Unlike a deed for a house lot, which describes land by boundaries, a unit deed identifies the unit by number with reference to the recorded condominium declaration and condominium plat or plans. It conveys the unit itself, an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, and the rights and obligations in the declaration and bylaws. Unit deeds are recorded like other deeds and appear in the chain of title. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
What a unit deed typically includes
| Element | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Unit number | Identifies the unit |
| Condominium name | Identifies the project |
| Declaration reference | Book and page or instrument number |
| Plat or plans reference | Location of unit drawings |
| Common element interest | Percentage share |
| Limited common elements | Parking spaces or storage assigned |
| Subject-to clauses | Declaration, bylaws, easements |
Reading the legal description
A unit deed might say “Unit 304 of Riverview Condominium, according to the declaration recorded as Instrument 2020-12345, together with an undivided 1.25 percent interest in the common elements.” See condo plat vs subdivision plat.
Limited common elements
Parking spaces, balconies, and storage units may be limited common elements assigned to the unit, sometimes listed in the deed or declaration.
Declaration
The deed is subject to the condominium declaration, which defines unit boundaries, common elements, and rules.
Recording
Unit deeds are recorded in the county land records. See how to record a deed.
Title and taxes
Each unit is usually taxed separately, with its own parcel number. Title searches cover the unit and the condominium documents.
Example
A buyer purchases Unit 12B. The unit deed references the declaration, the condominium plans showing the unit’s boundaries, a 0.85 percent common element interest, and parking space P-14 as a limited common element.
Errors to watch for
Wrong unit numbers, missing parking assignments, or outdated declaration references can cause problems. Review the deed before closing.
Unit boundaries
The declaration usually defines unit boundaries as interior surfaces of walls, floors, and ceilings, which affects repair and insurance responsibilities.
Questions before closing
- Does the unit number in the deed match the unit you inspected?
- Are your parking space and storage unit listed, either in the deed or the declaration?
- Does the deed reference the current declaration, including amendments?
- Is the common element percentage consistent with the declaration’s schedule?
Ask the title company to confirm these points before signing.
Unit deeds and HOA dues
The common element percentage often sets your share of association assessments. Higher percentages generally mean higher dues.
Conversion condos
Buildings converted from apartments to condos have declarations recorded at conversion, and the first unit deeds come from the converting developer.
Bottom line
A condo unit deed conveys a unit by number, an undivided share of common elements, and rights under the declaration. It references recorded condominium documents rather than land boundaries. Review the deed, declaration, and plans when buying. Explore condo plats via the Platbookmapper map.
Condo unit deed FAQ
What is a unit deed?
A deed transferring a condominium unit.
What does a unit deed convey?
The unit plus a share of common elements.
Does a unit deed describe land boundaries?
No, it references the declaration and plans.
Are parking spaces in the unit deed?
Sometimes, as limited common elements.
Is a unit deed recorded?
Yes, in county land records.