What are deed abstracts primarily used for in the context of tax maps?

Deed abstracts play a crucial role in the context of tax maps, particularly in identifying non-conformance. This involves examining how a property or its use aligns with zoning regulations, building codes, and other legal requirements. Deed abstracts provide essential details about property boundaries, ownership history, and any encumbrances, which can highlight whether a property meets local zoning laws or building standards.

When a tax assessor reviews a deed abstract, they can determine if the property conforms to its assigned zoning classification or if there are any deviations that could qualify as non-conforming uses. This information is vital for ensuring that properties are assessed accurately according to their compliance status, ultimately affecting property values and tax assessments.

In contrast, while deed abstracts may contain information relevant to calculating property taxes or assessing property value, their primary function within tax maps is focused on identifying compliance with legal and zoning regulations. Documenting sales transactions is a function of deed abstracts but does not relate directly to the purpose of tax maps in non-conformance identification.