Chattels refer to movable items of property that are not permanently attached to land or buildings. This includes personal belongings like furniture, vehicles, and equipment. For example, a sofa is considered a chattel, while a house or a tree is classified as real property. Chattels are distinct from real property, which encompasses land and structures that are fixed in place.
Chattels are commonly referenced in various legal contexts, including property law, contract law, and family law. Understanding the classification of chattels is important in matters such as divorce settlements, where the division of personal property may be necessary. Users can utilize legal forms provided by US Legal Forms to manage transactions involving chattels, such as sales or transfers.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Here are a couple of examples of chattels:
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
| State | Chattel Definition |
|---|---|
| California | Chattels include all personal property not classified as real estate. |
| New York | Chattels are defined similarly, emphasizing ownership and movability. |
| Texas | Chattels are recognized as personal property, distinct from real property. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Chattel | Movable personal property. | Not attached to land or buildings. |
| Real Property | Land and anything permanently attached to it. | Includes buildings, trees, and fixtures. |
| Fixtures | Items that were once chattels but have become attached to real property. | Considered part of real property once attached. |
If you need to deal with chattels, consider the following steps:
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Chattels are movable items, while real property includes land and anything permanently attached to it.